Yesterday, the Senedd’s Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee published its final report on its Apprenticeship Pathways inquiry. The Committee has rightly recognised that apprenticeships are key to both help Wales’ citizens upskill themselves, as well as to help provide the correct skills to drive forward our economy and produce economic growth.
Responding to the findings, Chair of ColegauCymru’s Strategic Work Based Learning Group, Dr Barry Walters said,
"We welcome the report from the Senedd’s Economy Committee. This inquiry has provided an opportunity for the Senedd to explore in detail the contribution of apprenticeships in raising skill levels, driving productivity, and creating resilient communities. Colleges in Wales stand ready to work with the Welsh Government and Medr to further grow and develop our apprenticeships offer.
Working together we must urgently address the challenges in offering independent advice and guidance to all our learners to help them make informed decisions about their futures; and ensure that there is more support is for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, to ensure that they are able to access the apprenticeships programme and identify un-tapped talent across Wales. Parity of esteem isn’t about having a uniform policy environment, but recognising that vocational and technical routes are distinctive and equally as valuable.
Apprenticeships are in invaluable opportunity for individuals to "earn and learn" whilst equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours essential for success in the workplace”.
Further Information
Read the Senedd Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee Apprenticeship Pathways report
Jeff Protheroe, Strategic Advisor – Work-Based Learning and Employability
Jeff.Protheroe@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
