Welsh Gov Minister returns to college to celebrate Apprenticeship Week
The minister responsible for apprenticeship policy in Wales returned to the college where he himself studied as an apprentice to celebrate Apprenticeship Week
The minister responsible for apprenticeship policy in Wales returned to the college where he himself studied as an apprentice to celebrate Apprenticeship Week.
Having left school at 17, the Skills Minister, Jack Sargeant, studied at Deeside College (now Coleg Cambria) and later Wrexham University.
Addressing students, ex-apprentices and industry representatives at the college, he said:
“My apprenticeship helped me gain qualifications...
... while also developing skills on the shop floor that have stayed with me throughout my career.
"The same problem-solving and decision-making skills I learnt as an apprentice are now helping me shape the policies that will support the next generation of apprentices across Wales.
Latest data (April 2024) shows the Welsh Government has supported nearly 56,000 new apprenticeship starts so far during this Senedd term.
The Minister continues:
“In north-east Wales, where I grew up, advanced manufacturing is a major employer, and I know how apprenticeships provide a route into high-quality jobs.
"Apprenticeships are an investment in the future and there are so many exciting opportunities, such as in Wales’ green economy or our thriving creative sector, for example.
"The £144 million allotted in our draft budget will ensure businesses of all sizes can take on apprentices, providing opportunities for thousands to gain skills and progress in their careers.”
Welsh Government says their annual funding has increased from £128m (in 2020) to almost £144m this year.