New ‘Skills for the Workplace’ project aims to power South West Wales workforce
New ‘Skills for the Workplace’ project aims to power South West Wales workforce
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A major new training initiative has been launched to equip individuals across South West Wales with the skills most in demand from employers, in a bid to strengthen the regional workforce and help people thrive in today’s fast-changing jobs market.
The Skills for the Workplace project, spearheaded by Gower College Swansea, was officially launched at Sketty Hall Business School during Adult Learners’ Week — underlining its focus on supporting adults to retrain and upskill.
Funded through the Swansea Bay City Deal, the scheme brings together the region’s four colleges — Gower College Swansea, NPTC Group of Colleges, Coleg Sir Gâr and Pembrokeshire College — alongside the Regional Learning and Skills Partnership (RLSP). Together, they will deliver heavily subsidised training in a number of priority sectors, including:
Advanced and Smart Manufacturing
- Engineering
- Energy and Net Zero Carbon
- Health and Social Care
- Digital and ICT
- Construction
The project aims to provide joined-up employment and training opportunities, supporting businesses to develop their staff while tackling widespread skills shortages across South West Wales. It also seeks to create new pathways for individuals looking to enter the workforce.
Paul Kift, Interim Principal of Gower College Swansea, said: “This project is about building confidence, developing expertise and ensuring our communities have access to the skills that employers are looking for right now. By working in partnership with employers, we can directly support workforce development, helping businesses to upskill their staff, boost productivity and close skills gaps.
“These collaborations are at the heart of the College and will make a real difference to both businesses and individuals across the region.
We believe continued professional development plays a crucial role in this, giving people the chance to retrain, adapt and create a future-proofed workforce ready for the challenges of tomorrow.”
At the launch event, businesses from across the region were invited to hear how the scheme could benefit them. The College’s Business Development Consultant, Stuart Davies, hosted a panel discussion with employers who have already experienced the value of workforce development.
Panel members included Lucy Hole, Director of The Secret Hospitality Group; Jonathan Morris, Strategic Development Manager for Tai Tarian; and Jane Lewis, Regional Partnership Manager for the RLSP.
Lewis said: *“Skills for the Workplace is a fantastic opportunity for employers and employees alike. By aligning training with the needs of local industries, we can bridge current gaps and help create a stronger, more resilient workforce for south west Wales.
Working in partnership with colleges has already enabled many employers to upskill their workforce, address skills shortages and improve staff confidence and productivity. It is particularly fitting to launch this project during Adult Learners’ Week, as it highlights the importance of collaboration, opportunity, and lifelong learning for everyone in our communities.”*
The Skills for the Workplace project is part-funded by the Skills and Talent Programme through the RLSP and Swansea Bay City Deal.
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