Today, during #CollegesWeek2026, we’re celebrating Young People - and the life-changing impact colleges across Wales have in helping them gain the vocational and academic skills they need to thrive.
At Cardiff and Vale College, Junior Apprenticeships are opening doors for young people who may otherwise be at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training). One of those young people is Eddie Moloney.
A member of the Traveller Community, Eddie first joined the College as part of Cardiff and Vale College’s pioneering Junior Apprenticeship programme, designed specifically to support 14-16-year-olds who need a different pathway. Before enrolling, Eddie had been out of education since the end of Year 7, only returning at the end of Year 10.
From those first tentative steps back into education, Eddie progressed to a Level 3 Business course, where he achieved three Distinctions. He is now studying Law at the University of Exeter and aspires to become a lawyer specialising in corporate law and clinical negligence.
Reflecting on his journey, Eddie said,
“The College has really helped me fulfil my ambitions. I wasn’t in education at all when I started at the College - I left at the end of Year 7 and didn’t return until the end of Year 10 so the Junior Apprenticeship really helped me.”
Junior Apprenticeships can provide fantastic opportunities for young people to re-engage with learning, build confidence and develop real, transferable skills. Estyn’s review of the junior apprenticeship programme in Wales found that the programme improves engagement and attendance, delivers high success rates in vocational qualifications, and supports strong progression into further education and training. When we invest in young people, we invest in Wales’ future. Eddie’s story shows exactly what’s possible.
Further Information
Find out more about how #CollegesWeek2026 is shining a spotlight on the vital role colleges play in transforming lives and strengthening communities.
ColegauCymru Manifesto for the Senedd 2026 election
In our Manifesto for the Senedd 2026 election, ColegauCymru is calling for sustainable national funding and stronger local collaboration to ensure equitable access to vocational pathways for young people across Wales.
Read more: Growth, Opportunity and Fairness.
