Following on from WQ86339, will the Minister outline specific details regarding if there are sub-targets for sectors and disciplines as part of the Welsh Government’s target of 125,000 apprenticeships by 2026, and where they exist?
Apprenticeship programme delivery is driven by sector priorities prescribed to our provider network each contract year. The provider network responds to market need in line with these priorities at a regional and national level, rather than to targets from Government. .
Sector priorities are informed by Regional Skills Partnerships, labour market intelligence and interaction with sector bodies. Current priorities include; Health and Social Care & Early Years Care; Digital and Information Technology and Net Zero sectors and occupations, including energy, housing, renewables, and transport. In addition, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and technical sectors and occupations remain as cross-cutting priorities, supporting our broader aims. Providers are also required to prioritise delivery towards those apprentices aged 16-24, supporting the Young Persons Guarantee and under-represented groups, including disabled learners and apprentices entering or re-entering the labour market.
Welsh Medium / Bilingual provision is, however, targeted and 50% of Welsh first language learners who commence an apprenticeship within the sectors of Health Care, Construction and Agriculture are expected to undertake all or part of their apprenticeship in Welsh.
In all sectors, provider performance and delivery is monitored continuously.