The funding will be used to support learners in
completing their vocational qualifications this
academic year, by providing additional support and
removing barriers that may prevent completion.
An extra £2.5 million will also support Welsh colleges
and private training providers provide additional
mental health support in recognition of the increased
mental wellness issues as a result of the pandemic.
The funding is in addition to £23 million announced by
the Welsh Government to support colleges in July.
On Friday (5 February), it was announced that some
vocational learners will return to college after the
half term break. Learners studying “licence to
practice” qualifications, including apprentices, will
be in the first priority group to return, so that they
can access the facilities and equipment necessary for
their courses.
,
the Education Minister, said:
There are around 50,000 learners in Wales currently
undertaking vocational qualifications. This support
will help our colleges provide even greater support
to help those learners get the qualifications they’ve
worked so hard for.
It’s important we take action to support this year’s
students, so they can go on to their next stage of
education, training or work as they had planned. We
are working with colleges to plan a safe, socially
distanced return for the vocational students who need
it most.
, the
Finance Minister and Trefnydd, said:
As a Government, we want to ensure nobody is left
behind due to the pandemic. This is another example
of the funding we’ve announced this year to support
young people at all stages of their education
journey.
