ColegauCymru has responded to the Welsh Government announcement of a review into the Post 16 Learner Travel Measure urging Ministers to ensure all young people have access to education and skills training.
Earlier this week and responding to issues identified by the Children’s Commissioner, the Welsh Language Commissioner, as well as Assembly Members, the Welsh Government has agreed to review post-16 learner travel. ColegauCymru has been raising this issue and the impact on learners in recent months during its regular meeting with AMs and welcomes the review.
Iestyn Davies, ColegauCymru CEO said,
“ColegauCymru appreciates the financial challenges facing many local authorities but it is vital that post-16 learners are supported to access education and training. We need to invest in our learners and the squeeze on discretionary travel arrangements needs to be addressed.”
“We look forward to contributing to the Welsh Government review and helping to ensure that future learners, especially from disadvantaged areas, are not prevented from achieving their potential due to travel costs. These costs often then fall on FE colleges as they take steps to support access to learning.”
“The challenge of learner travel for the post 16 sector can only be achieved by taking a cross-Government approach and by engaging with FE colleges where the majority of young people now receive their learning opportunities This includes supporting apprentices in their specific needs and training.”
