During the week, the charity which represents and promotes the benefits of Further Education and workbased learning sector in Wales is celebrating proudly the apprenticeship offer which has consistently delivered high success rates above 80% and supported thousands of apprentices and range of employers across the country.
The network of 13 FE institutions work in close partnership to deliver high quality apprenticeship programmes in a wide range of vocational areas, from foundation level to higher apprenticeships. With strong links to industry, and highly established support systems for learners, the FE sector is well placed to achieve the Welsh Government’s ambition for 100,000 high quality apprenticeships within the current Programme for Government. The apprenticeship programme is an essential element of the FE vocational offer supporting college-based learning and delivery of support for skills and employability within the community.
Highlighting the importance of the apprenticeship system to Welsh politicians, Jack Sargeant AM gave a 90 second statement in plenary this week. He said, “apprenticeships must equip people with the employability and transferrable skills needed for working life, and to manage career transitions in an ever-changing labour market”.
Kelly Edwards, Director of Development at ColegauCymru added, “The Further Education sector has a strong history of delivering apprenticeships and has established effective employer partnerships. This has enabled FE colleges to respond to local demand and to provide innovative business solutions.” “The apprenticeship system in Wales supports Welsh businesses to attract talent and to retain a skilled workforce. Apprentices maximise their potential by learning through work, supported by experienced FE staff to develop the wider skills needed to succeed throughout their careers. Partnership between employers, colleges and learners underpins the success of the apprenticeship programme”
Research undertaken by ColegauCymru, supported by EACEA grant funding to EQAVET, shows that collaboration remains central to the success of our apprenticeship system. FE colleges have a critical role to play in strengthening economic resilience, building on firm foundations with local employers, and opening up pathways into employment through supporting the diverse communities of Wales.
