From 1 August 2021 all Welsh Government funded construction apprenticeships will be led by Wales’ network of 11 further education colleges.
Despite the significant change in contracting arrangements, the eleven colleges are confident that due to the current way in which construction apprenticeships are subcontracted to them by CITB, there should be little noticeable change for current or future apprentices.
Dr Barry Walters, Principal of Pembrokeshire College, who chairs the ColegauCymru Work Based Learning Strategic Group said,
“Changes to the funding and delivery mechanisms shouldn’t impact individual apprentices including those whose programme completion has been delayed by the Covid19 pandemic.”
“Apprentices moving to the next level will receive the same support, guidance and assessment as they start their new programmes. Going forward, a benefit of the new arrangements is that apprentices and employers alike will be able to work with colleges and take advantage of all the programmes and support that are on offer within further education colleges. This will ensure that apprentices and employers have access to a range of skills training and learning at a one stop shop.”
With the support of ColegauCymru, individual colleges are working with CITB to assess the best way to support staff with any changes to contracting relationships.
Dr Walters further added,
“Apprentices and prospective students should contact their local college for advice on apprenticeships or for other in-work skills training. Support for employers, including information on incentives to take on an apprentice, can also be found at their local college.”
