What action is the Welsh Government taking to promote forestry apprenticeships and to ensure the availability of level 1 and 2 forestry courses in further education colleges all regions of Wales?
We have a strong and dynamic network of apprenticeship training providers across Wales that support and deliver a wide range of training routes. Forestry apprenticeships are available at Level 2 and are successfully training students to a level meets industry needs. These are complemented by shorter courses available in college settings or with independent specialists. Training providers are contracted to deliver a wide range of tools and interventions to advertise and raise awareness of the wide range of opportunities available. Many work closely with employers and Careers Wales delivering open evenings, awareness raising events and providing links to school age children to highlight the range of career opportunities that exist.
Our Apprenticeship Forestry Pilot was launched in 2019 and has proved successful, with nearly 30 apprentices in South West Wales having completed their apprenticeship over the three-year period. This unique project aimed to support and raise awareness of opportunities within this growing sector and the evaluation, due in the summer, will highlight the strong interaction between apprentices, employers and industry. Full-time courses and progression routes from Level 2 are available to support those wishing to continue and develop their learning further.
Our apprenticeship programme in Wales is supported by a creative and proactive marketing strategy that aims to attract learners and to highlight the benefits an apprenticeship can provide.