August 13, 2025 - 792 views
With A-level and GCSE results coming out in forthcoming days, apprenticeships in Wales are being spotlighted as a great path for young people to work and learn while gaining practical skills.
Through the Young Person's Guarantee, the Welsh Government is pushing for more employers to offer apprenticeship opportunities.
So far a total of 73,795 new apprenticeships have been supported, with a focus on diverse industries like digital technology and healthcare.
Delivered by a range of providers - including colleges, training organisations and universities through degree apprenticeships - they offer an alternative to traditional academic routes.
Through Working Wales, students can access comprehensive information about opportunities, receive guidance on applications and connect with employers offering positions across Wales.
The service also provides personalised support to match young people's interests and abilities with suitable programmes.
Minister for Skills, Jack Sargeant, said: "As a former apprentice myself, I know just how much of a rewarding pathway an apprenticeship and learning whilst 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."
The Welsh Government works closely with employers across public and private sectors to create apprenticeship opportunities that reflect Wales's economic priorities, ensuring apprentices develop skills that are not only valuable today but will remain in demand for years to come.
The Minister visited one of those companies this week, Boccard in North East Wales, to see their apprenticeship offer.
The nuclear manufacturing company currently has three apprentices, with two more joining this September. Through their partnership with Coleg Cambria, apprentices gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills for successful manufacturing careers.
The company also invests in continuous training, which helps apprentices to develop the digital skills and critical thinking essential for modern manufacturing.
Doug McQueen, Managing Director of Boccard, said: "We've cultivated a supportive and motivating environment that boosts both confidence and performance, making a real impact on the wellbeing of our apprentices. Our strong partnership with Coleg Cambria reflects our commitment to nurturing local talent and building lasting connections with the community.
"Our apprentices continue to excel. Most notably, our second-year apprentice Beau Tattersall recently won the Skill Weld National Heats - a testament to his dedication and the quality of training he receives. Beau is set to become an outstanding asset to our team."
Speaking at Boccard, Welding and Fabrication Apprentice Beau Tattersall, said: "I find it helpful and enjoyable – I’ve learnt so much. I really enjoy the nuclear side of it, like the high-spec kind of stuff and hopefully I can progress with that.
"I think the best part of an apprenticeship is earning whilst learning at the same time. Starting working early has definitely been an advantage."
The Young Person's Guarantee also provides additional support for those who may face barriers to accessing apprenticeships, ensuring that opportunities are available to all young people regardless of their background or circumstances.
Hear Pip from the Conwy Employment Hub discuss exam results and what options are open to young people to further their education, career or employment in North Wales. Click to listen to the Bayside podcast.
