FinTech Wales launches Community Academy to build talent pipeline

Daniel Bevan - Editor

Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.

FinTech Wales has launched a new Community Academy designed to give young people in Wales a direct route into careers within the fintech sector, working in partnership with leading Welsh employers.

The FinTech Wales Community Academy will provide paid, hands-on workplace experience for learners aged 18 to 19 who are not currently in full-time education, employment or training.

Funded through the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme, the initiative offers participants the opportunity to earn a nationally recognised qualification alongside placements with well-known fintech organisations including Monmouthshire Building Society, Hodge Bank, Creditsafe and Final Rentals.

The academy has been developed to address skills shortages in the sector and widen access to high-growth careers.

Training will be delivered by ACT Training, with learners working towards an Agored Award in Digital Skills for Business Level 2.

The programme will focus on practical skills such as data management, digital collaboration tools, online security and professional communication.

Rhys Griffiths, Head of Skills at FinTech Wales, said: ‘‘We are thrilled to launch the FinTech Wales Community Academy.

“This programme has been shaped by employers coming together to collaboratively tackle skills challenges within the sector.

“By investing in people, we’re not only creating valuable career pathways for young people but also strengthening the future of fintech in Wales.

“This is about collaboration, shared ambition and building a sustainable talent pipeline for the industry.’’

Employers involved in the scheme said the academy builds on existing efforts to support early careers within the sector.

Kristy Maloney, Head of Savings at Monmouthshire Building Society, said: “We’ve seen first-hand the positive impact of providing an opportunity to explore a new career – it’s exciting for the participants and for us as an organisation.

“Through working in collaboration with FinTech Wales, Hodge Bank, Final Rentals and CreditSafe, we’re able to continue making a difference and build the talent pipeline here in Wales.

“We can’t wait to meet the potential stars of the future.”

ACT Training said the programme combines practical experience with formal qualifications and wider employability support.

Lucy Wilkinson, Digital Services Route Manager at ACT Training, said: “We’re proud to offer a programme where learners not only gain hands-on experience across the fintech sector but also achieve a recognised digital skills qualification along the way.

“Being part of Jobs Growth Wales + allows learners to hone their numeracy, literacy and employability skills, all while receiving support and guidance from experienced tutors.

“They will also get the chance to work with different organisations, make new connections and get a taste for the world of work.

“At the end of it our learners will leave ready to take their next step with a qualification that opens doors for them.”

Recruitment for the FinTech Wales Community Academy is now open, with application details available via the ACT website.