Students in Wales are laying the groundwork for their future careers in the construction industry through an innovative suite of apprenticeship programmes. The inaugural cohort has begun their journey in the country’s first fully funded Construction Degree Apprenticeships, which aim to equip them with both academic qualifications and valuable work experience.
The programme, based at Coleg Cambria’s Bersham Road site in Wrexham, will see students spend two years at the college before transferring to Wrexham University for their final two years. This unique pathway is designed to foster the next generation of professionals in key fields such as Construction Management, Building Surveying, Civil Engineering, and Quantity Surveying.
Karl Jackson, Site Lead at Coleg Cambria Bersham Road and Assistant Principal for the Institute of Technology, welcomed the students, noting their enthusiasm for the programme. “The learners have already settled into the course and are eager to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills,” he said. “This apprenticeship will not only enhance their professional competence but also provide essential real-time training in a high-quality environment.”
The degree apprenticeships, funded by the Welsh Government, aim to bridge the gap between education and industry. By combining classroom learning with hands-on experience, the programme seeks to boost students’ skills, knowledge, and confidence, preparing them for the demands of a rapidly evolving construction sector.
Professor Maria Hinfelaar, former Vice-Chancellor at Wrexham University, highlighted the importance of the initiative during its launch over the summer. “As a university, we continuously review our portfolio and learning pathways to align with the needs of learners and employers,” she stated. “The Construction Degree Apprenticeships are a prime example of our commitment to meeting these needs.”
Designed in accordance with the Welsh Government Framework and professional body requirements, the programmes have received strong support from a range of stakeholders, including The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). This collaboration ensures that the apprenticeships meet industry standards and expectations, providing students with a comprehensive education that reflects current market demands.
Feedback from local employers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing enthusiasm for the launch of these apprenticeships in Wrexham. The initiative aims not only to equip students with necessary qualifications but also to address skill shortages in the construction industry by fostering a well-trained workforce.
As the first students embark on this groundbreaking educational journey, the future looks promising for Wales’s construction sector. By investing in these apprenticeships, the Welsh Government and educational institutions are paving the way for a new generation of skilled professionals ready to tackle the challenges of the industry.
In summary, the launch of the Construction Degree Apprenticeships marks a significant milestone for students and the construction sector in Wales, combining rigorous academic training with essential practical experience to prepare learners for successful careers.
