Senedd invested £144m into apprenticeships this year alone

In this Senedd term alone, the Welsh government has supported 73,795 new apprenticeships and invested £144 million into young Welsh peoples’ futures. This is an increase from £128 million last year.

The government’s Young Person’s Guarantee provides support for every young person living in Wales aged 16 to 24 to gain a place in education or training, or help to get into work or self improvement. Working Wales is one of the programme’s routes, where young people can access comprehensive information about opportunities, connect with employers offering roles across Wales, and receive guidance on applications.

Apprenticeships are a valuable pathway for young people who want to combine work with learning while gaining practical skills for their future careers, and offer an alternate, debt-free pathway to traditional academic routes. They are delivered by a range of providers, from colleges to universities to training organisations, and are available across a wide range of vital industries such as technology, engineering, and construction.

The Welsh government continues to work closely with employers across both public and private sectors to create apprenticeship opportunities that reflect Wales’ economic priorities.

Minister for skills, Jack Sergeant, said: “As a former apprentice myself, I know just how much of a rewarding pathway an apprenticeship and learning while you’re earning can be for a young person.

“We implore students to consider alternative routes—apprenticeships offer the perfect combination of practical experience and professional development. 

“Through our Young Person’s Guarantee, we’re committed to ensuring every young person in Wales has access to high-quality apprenticeships that can launch brilliant careers. I encourage all students to explore the various opportunities available through Working Wales.”