New vision for Welsh apprenticeships revealed at training providers’ event

ACT were amongst the training providers who attended the Skills in Action event hosted by the National Training Federation for Wales. During the event Deputy Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Cefin Campbell, announced a package of reforms to vocational skills training across Wales.

The Deputy Minister also announced that a skills audit is underway and that early findings were set to shape the agenda of a skills summit planned for the autumn.

During the event, which took place at ACT’s Ocean Park House, Cefin Campbell MS emphasised the importance of partnership and the need for clarity, stability and an apprenticeship system that supports Welsh needs specifically.  

Ahead of the event, Mr Campbell MS, said: “We are at a pivotal moment for skills in Wales. Wales has real strengths, a talented workforce, strong employers and excellent training providers. We need to make sure those strengths are fully realised.  

“The skills audit we are undertaking will give us a clearer picture of where the gaps are and where the opportunities lie. The Future Skills Summit will be a chance for employers, learners, and providers to help shape the reforms that follow. This is genuinely collaborative work, and I am delighted to be sharing our progress with the NTFW today.” 

Lisa Mytton, NTFW strategic director, welcomed the Welsh Government’s commitment to work collaboratively with training providers, employers and partners to shape the future of vocational training in Wales. She said: 

“Today’s announcement is an important step towards building a skills system in Wales that is ambitious, responsive and future focused. Apprenticeships have a vital role to play in delivering the skilled workforce our economy needs.” 

Richard Spear, Managing Director at ACT, who was in attendance at the event, added: “We were delighted to welcome the Deputy Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education to ACT’s head office today for the latest National Training Federation for Wales members’ event. 

“The Deputy Minister delivered an engaging and passionate speech on his priorities for reshaping skills training in Wales. It was particularly encouraging to hear him acknowledge the critical importance of apprenticeships and the excellent training providers working across Wales. 

“We also welcome his commitment to working in partnership with the sector to drive further improvements for learners, employers and the Welsh economy.”