At Cyfle Building Skills, we are dedicated to paving the way for aspiring trades men and women, and National Apprenticeship Week provided the perfect platform for us to share insights. In collaboration with CITB, we conducted a significant event at Coleg Sir-Gar’s Ammanford Campus, where over 100 students gained valuable insights into potential careers in construction.

Apprenticeships combine hands-on training with classroom teaching, creating a balanced learning environment for students to gain the essential skills and knowledge required for success in the industry. Within the world of construction, apprenticeships cover a diverse set of disciplines, such as carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, bricklaying, and more. Apprenticeships typically span two to four years and result in an industry-wide recognised qualification.

Our team, alongside companies like Westward Energy, Bouygues, Elexor Engineering, TAD Builders Ltd, Lloyd & Gravell Ltd, Carmarthenshire County Council, Elijah Homes Ltd, and CCTAL, provided guidance on post-college opportunities. Mark Whitby from CITB highlighted the dynamic nature of construction sector opportunities, ranging from smaller domestic projects to large construction sites.

Work experience emerged as a central theme, with employers encouraging students to enhance their CVs in the competitive apprenticeship landscape. Our Lead Training Coordinator, Rhys Fisher, introduced the unique apprenticeship prospects available, including our 'shared apprenticeship’ programme, which allows apprentices to work with multiple employers to gain diverse skills for qualification.

For those seeking more on-site experience, we talked about our Southwest Wales Onsite Hub initiative, which offers students 10 days of immersive on-site work, a basic toolkit upon their arrival and £200 following successful completion – a valuable addition to their professional journey.

Jonathan Roberts, part-owner of Elexor Engineering, shared his inspirational apprenticeship journey that began with us here at Cyfle Building Skills. His career highlights, including projects for the Ministry of Defence, showcased the vast possibilities in the construction industry. Encouraging students to seize every learning opportunity, Jonathan emphasised the industry's potential to open doors worldwide.

Speaking on the event’s success, our Lead Training Coordinator, Rhys Fisher said,

“The 'meet the employer' event was a fantastic opportunity for students to explore the diverse pathways within the construction sector. It's more than just a career; it's about laying the foundation for a successful future. Cyfle is proud to provide unique opportunities, and the overwhelming interest from students indicates a very bright and exciting future for the industry!”