Event Summary

Join Policy Insight Wales for our popular The Future of Apprenticeships Wales Conference as the system moves into a new era of reform. How can you prepare for the changes ahead? Bringing together training providers, tertiary education providers, industry representatives, employers and local authorities, the conference will examine Medr’s plans for apprenticeships, including the new delivery approach, funding model, and framework structure.

Apprenticeships are a key driver of productivity and economic growth. How can the reforms deliver a more flexible, responsive system that reflects employer needs? We will discuss plans to strengthen employer engagement and co-design, tackle skills shortages, and create more flexible programmes that better serve SMEs.

You will hear from apprentices who have progressed into sustained employment with insight into their learner experiences and next steps to help improve talent retention.

We will explore how to strengthen apprenticeship pathways, improve careers advice, and increase uptake – including through blended learning, modular progression, and improved credit transfer across further and higher education. Find out more about complying with the requirements of the new statutory Learner Engagement Code.

Spotlighting key sectors such as digital, engineering, advanced manufacturing, energy, health, social care, creative industries and media, we will explore how apprenticeships can bridge emerging skills gaps. You will hear from Regional Skills Partnerships (RSPs), how best to identify regional labour market priorities and align apprenticeship provision with local skills needs.

With changes coming in 2027 and the funding model still being shaped, attend this timely conference to engage, network, and learn what comes next for apprenticeships in Wales.

Key Points

  • Reforms to apprenticeships: preparing for the new system in August 2027
  • The impact of wider tertiary education reform: blended learning, modularisation, and credit transfer between FE, HE, and apprenticeships
  • Improving quality, completion rates, and sustained employment outcomes for apprentices
  • Funding and investment models: ensuring sustainability, value for money, and stronger incentives for priority skills delivery
  • Removing barriers for underrepresented groups, diverse learners, and rural communities to improve uptake of apprenticeships
  • Demystifying the apprenticeship pathway and raising awareness of apprenticeships through careers advice and guidance
  • The requirements of Learner Engagement Code
  • Creating incentives for employers, particularly SMEs, to take on apprentices
  • Best practice examples from Regional Skills Partnerships (RSP)

 

Materials can be provided in Welsh. Please allow 7 days for materials to be provided in Welsh. Gallwn ddarparu deunyddiau yn Gymraeg. E-bost:[email protected]. Caniatewch 7 diwrnod i ddeunyddiau gael eu darparu yn Gymraeg.

Concessionary rates and free places are available for community organisations and unfunded individuals. To apply, contact us [email protected]