Schools, colleges, employers and the Welsh Government must work together to present apprenticeships as a strong start to a career, the Senedd’s economy committee has concluded.
The committee heard evidence from apprentices and apprenticeship providers and has published recommendations for the Welsh Government to help people make better choices about their education and training in its latest report, Apprenticeship Pathways.
According to the committee, if the government increases awareness and take-up of apprenticeships, it will allow people to improve their skills and earning potential, building a more productive workforce and boosting the economy.
The committee heard that many learners are not aware of alternative routes into employment and pursue further academic study even though they could be better suited to a vocational route.
The committee’s recommendations include:
- Better engagement and promotion of apprenticeships as a viable education pathway for students
- The Welsh Government should work with schools, colleges and employers to present vocational courses as a good quality option
- Faster progress in developing a vocational education and training strategy
- Barriers to recruiting and retaining skilled assessors and apprenticeship trainers to be addressed
- Increases to pay for apprenticeships to be explored as part of the fair work agenda.
‘Respected and quality option’
Andrew RT Davies, chair of the Senedd’s Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee, said: “For many people, apprenticeships can be an excellent choice. They combine learning, earning, working and training.
“The apprentices who gave evidence were enjoying their courses and they are thriving as a result.
“However, we heard about many challenges facing people who want to do an apprenticeship, not least understanding and navigating the system itself.
“For young people, the academic route is clear, and schools work hard to signpost and encourage their learners to do A-levels and degrees. The same cannot be said for apprenticeships.
“We’re calling on the Welsh Government to work with schools, colleges and employers to make sure that the apprenticeship pathway is promoted to everyone as a respected and quality option.
“There are huge benefits to apprentices, employers and the economy if we get this right in Wales.”
Long-term benefits
The Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) has welcomed the report and the drive to promote apprenticeships as a respected and high-quality career pathway.
Jeremy Parkin, ECA vice president, said: “Apprenticeships are the preferred route for training the skilled workforce needed to meet the demands of our industry.
“ECA member firms in Wales regularly point out the lack of attention given to trade careers and apprenticeships in our schools.
“We’re pleased to have contributed to evidence that highlights the long-term benefits of apprenticeships for both individuals and businesses in Wales.
“We urge the Welsh Government to heed the committee’s recommendations to embed apprenticeships as an essential part of the Welsh social and economic fabric.”
