This week the Senedd’s Cross-Party Group on Further Education and Skills, chaired by John Griffiths MS, brought together senior leaders to discuss green skills and their role in driving economic growth and sustainability in Wales. Held during #CollegesWeek2025, the meeting provided a platform for leaders across the FE sector to share ideas and explore opportunities to support the green skills agenda with MSs from across the political spectrum.
Attendees heard Director of Regeneration at Pobl Housing Association, Solitaire Pritchard, who outlined their successful collaboration with Gower College Swansea in delivering green skills training. This long-standing partnership has equipped staff and subcontractors with expertise in Solar PV, battery storage, and electric vehicle technology, ensuring the housing sector remains at the forefront of sustainable innovation.
The meeting also highlighted the success of NPTC Group of Colleges in securing a Crown Estate FLOW Supply Chain Accelerator bid, demonstrating the sector’s role in supporting the renewable energy supply chain. Described by the CEO of NPTC Group of Colleges Mark Dacey as “a vital step forward in positioning Wales at the forefront of renewable energy innovation”, the project’s first phase will lay the groundwork for the creation of a Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) Skills Academy facility in Port Talbot.
Additionally, Keep Wales Tidy Deputy Chief Executive, Louise Tambini, presented their National Lottery bid for a Green Careers Project, which aims to widen access to green career opportunities across Wales.
Speaking following the meeting, ColegauCymru Chief Executive David Hagendyk, said,
“Our FE colleges are at the heart of Wales’ transition to a greener and more sustainable future, ensuring learners have the skills needed for the green jobs of tomorrow. Today’s discussions showcased the innovative work already taking place across the sector, and it’s clear that continued collaboration between colleges, businesses, and government will be key to building a sustainable and prosperous Wales.
However, none of this can be achieved without the sustainable long-term funding for the sector that is so if we are to be able to continue to meet the needs of industry and to equip people with the skills they need.”
The meeting formed part of #CollegesWeek2025, which celebrates the vital role of FE in supporting learners, businesses, and communities. One of the themes of the week is Become a Green Energy Superpower, perfectly aligned with the discussions on green skills and growth, highlighting the essential contribution of colleges in driving sustainability and innovation.
As Wales looks to lead the way in green skills and growth, the FE sector remains committed to equipping learners with the knowledge and expertise needed to drive sustainable change.
Further Information
Senedd Cymru
Cross-Party Group - FE and Skills
ColegauCymru Consultation Response
Welsh Government – Just Transition Framework
March 2024
ColegauCymru Consultation Response
Senedd Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee - Green Economy
March 2024
Clare Williams, Policy Officer
Clare.Williams@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
