Written question WQ87972

A prime objective of the Welsh Government Apprenticeship Programme is responding to skills shortages and gaps in sectors critical to drive productivity and economic growth such as supporting our net zero ambitions, the foundational economy and public services.

Informed by Regional Skills Partnerships (RSPs), LMI and interaction with sector bodies we are committed to increasing apprenticeship numbers, especially in sectors with skill shortages. We will do this by promoting the benefits of apprenticeships via a range of multi-media campaigns throughout the year which will target both individuals and employers by utilising channels and tactics informed by market intelligence and research.

Our contracted apprenticeship providers are also expected to effectively plan to meet employers skills priorities and shortages by putting in place interventions which include:

• increasing or migrating provision into priority, growth and emerging sector areas, for example, in digital and net zero related skills;

• increasing the proportion of provision at level 3 and above;

• using labour market information to support national, regional and local priorities, including skill shortages; and

• developing approaches that takes account of technological changes within industries.