Reimagining Career Pathways for Young People in Wales

Addressing the fragmented landscape of career provision for school leavers in Wales is a pressing issue. While we have all the necessary components, educational institutions, training programs, and career services are not currently functioning as a cohesive unit.

One of the primary challenges we face is the pace at which careers and industry requirements evolve. This dynamism requires our supporting organisations to update their understanding of industry needs continually. Without this constant refresh, our career advice and educational programs risk becoming outdated, leaving young people ill-prepared for the workforce.

Traditionally, there has been a strong emphasis on university education as the primary route to a successful career. However, not all school leavers are suited to or interested in a university environment. With emerging sectors, particularly in renewables and energy, new career opportunities are available that do not necessarily require a university degree. These roles often offer professional routes with accreditation and direct industry engagement.

Feedback from employers consistently highlights a gap between the skills taught in colleges and the competencies required in the workplace. While our colleges are proficient at equipping students with technical skills, there is a crucial need to make these skills directly applicable and relevant to industry needs. Closing this gap means enhancing our curriculum to include more practical, industry-specific experiences, ensuring that graduates are not just skilled but also industry-competent.

The solution lies in creating better synergy among employers, educational institutions, and young individuals. We need to align qualifications more closely with what is usable and valuable in the workplace. This approach not only makes our young people more employable but also provides industries with graduates who can contribute more effectively from the start.

At Skills.Wales, we are committed to facilitating these connections, enhancing the dialogue between all stakeholders, and ensuring that the career pathways available to young people in Wales are as robust, relevant, and rewarding as possible. By doing so, we not only improve the prospects for our youth but also strengthen the overall economic opportunity for our businesses in Wales.