Latest news with #YoungPerson'sGuarantee
Business News Wales
23-07-2025
- Business
- Business News Wales
Why Business Leaders Must Step Up for Wales' Young People
As employers we often talk about the skills gap, about young people entering the workforce unprepared, and about the challenges of recruitment and retention. But the real question is: what are we doing to change that? Here in Wales, the Welsh Government's Young Person's Guarantee is a much-needed commitment to our 16–24-year-olds, ensuring young adults have access to support, education, training and employment. But its success depends largely on us – the businesses of Wales. At ACT, we're calling on businesses to step up and join our Employer Pledge – a commitment to support Jobs Growth Wales + learners, aged 16 to 19, through work placements or early career opportunities. It's a simple but powerful action that can shape a young person's future and strengthen your business at the same time. This isn't just about doing the right thing. It's about doing something proactive for your organisation's output. Our experience working with thousands of employers across Wales has shown that young people bring energy, fresh thinking, and long-term potential to the workplace. They ask questions, offer new perspectives, and often challenge us when we're set in our ways. Crucially, through ACT's Employer Pledge, there's no cost to you for taking on a learner. We cover the learner's allowance while you benefit from a motivated individual eager to learn and contribute. What's more, our dedicated team supports you every step of the way to ensure the process is seamless for both parties. Of course, there's also a moral imperative here. For many young people, especially those who are often overlooked for opportunities or who haven't thrived in traditional education, a placement can be life changing. It offers a foot in the door, a boost to their confidence, and a glimpse of what their future could be in a sector they're passionate about. As employers, we have the ability – and I would say, the responsibility – to create those opportunities. Captiva Spa in Caerphilly is one business who has committed to supporting young people. They've taken on learners who have not only become valuable team members during their placements but have gone on to become long-term employees and even managers. Likewise, Cardiff-based finance company Ramsay & White have welcomed two Jobs Growth Wales+ learners as permanent staff after watching them flourish on placement. These are not one-off success stories, they're examples of what happens when businesses invest in potential. Supporting the Young Person's Guarantee through ACT's Employer Pledge isn't about ticking a box. It's about changing lives through building a talent pipeline, supporting the local community, and shaping the kind of workforce we all want to see – skilled, engaged, and future-proof. To those still on the fence, I say don't underestimate what a young person can bring to your team. Yes, they might need guidance but with the right mentoring they often surprise us with their initiative, drive, and ideas. At ACT, our purpose is 'improving lives through learning' but we can't do it alone. We need businesses across Wales to get behind the pledge and help support our future workforce to thrive.
The Herald Scotland
17-07-2025
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Choose college for the future you want
College is for everyone One in five of Scotland's 18–19-year-olds choose to study full time at college. But it's not just for school leavers - 41% of college students are over 25, so if you're looking to upskill or retrain, you won't be alone. Colleges offer outstanding support to students at every stage, and they're a key part of the Scottish Government's Young Person's Guarantee, helping 16–24-year-olds connect to opportunities for the future. Get the qualifications and skills that count College opens doors to opportunity - whether you're aiming for university, starting a new career, or retraining in something different. With pathways into further study, skilled work and apprenticeships, colleges are focused on helping you shape a successful future. The vast majority of college leavers move on to positive destinations. Many also use college as a stepping stone to university, with growing numbers progressing directly into second or third year of a degree. Courses are developed in partnership with employers, ensuring students gain the skills that today's workplaces are looking for. And with thousands studying as part of their job, colleges are supporting people to build and grow their careers. Real experience for real jobs Scotland's colleges have strong links with employers and are the largest providers of Modern Apprenticeships. They work hand-in-hand with industry to design relevant, practical courses - giving students a clear edge in the job market with hands-on skills and real-world experience. Flexible learning, personalised support, and funding Whether you prefer to study full time, part time, or online, there's a course structure that works for you. College learning is flexible and designed to fit around your life - work, family, or other commitments. Choose from a wide range of options, including entry-level courses, apprenticeships, professional qualifications, and degree programmes. Many colleges also offer online learning to help you boost your career or learn something new. There's also a variety of funding options available - from bursaries and discretionary grants to support for childcare. Your local college can guide you through the process. Whoever you are. Wherever you are. Whatever you want to be. Find your local college at and start your journey today.
Daily Record
16-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
College isn't just for teens: future-proof yourself with career-focused learning
There is arguably nothing more important than investing in your future. Making sure you're prepared for whatever life throws at you is a great situation to be in. When it comes to making decisions about your next steps - whether that means continuing education or embarking on a new professional journey - your local college could be the key to unlocking your potential. Across Scotland, these institutions are at the heart of skills development and career transformation. Contrary to popular belief, colleges aren't just for recent school leavers. Although one in five of Scotland's 18-19-year-olds choose to study full time at college, 41% of students are aged 25 and above, proving that it's never too late to learn something new or pivot your career. Whether you're seeking a fresh start, looking to upskill, or returning to education after a break, you'll find yourself among peers on similar journeys. Open doors for everyone From university progression and apprenticeships to direct entry into the workforce, colleges offer a spectrum of opportunities. Many graduates use their college qualifications as a springboard into higher education, with increasing numbers moving straight into the second or third year of university degrees. Courses are regularly updated in collaboration with employers to ensure that what you learn is exactly what today's industries demand. With thousands studying as part of their job, colleges across Scotland support people to build and grow their careers. What truly sets Scottish colleges apart is their deep-rooted connections with employers. Colleges work closely with businesses to design hands-on courses that mirror real workplace challenges. This practical approach gives you not just knowledge but also the confidence and experience valued by employers. No matter what stage you're at, you'll find support, as colleges are a key part of the Scottish Government's Young Person's Guarantee, helping 16-24-year-olds connect to opportunities for the future. Flexible learning designed around you Life isn't one-size-fits-all, and neither is college learning. Whether you want to study full-time, part-time, or online, there's a course structure tailored to fit around work schedules, family life, and other commitments. From entry-level certificates to professional qualifications and even degree programmes, the options are as diverse as Scotland's learners. When it comes to funding, Scottish colleges have got your back too. A wide range of financial support is available, from bursaries and discretionary grants, to help with childcare costs. Colleges have dedicated teams ready to guide you through the process so that finances don't stand in the way of your ambitions. Whoever you are. Wherever you are. Whatever you want to be.
Scotsman
14-07-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
Scotland's colleges offer pathways for everyone: Here's how to find the best one for you
College Development Network What could be more important than choosing your future? If you're exploring your next steps in education or thinking about a new career, your local college could be the key to unlocking your potential. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Scotland's colleges are the largest providers of training and skills in the country. Whether you're just starting out, changing direction, or returning to learning, there's a college near you ready to support your ambitions. College is for everyone One in five of Scotland's 18-19-year-olds choose to study full time at college. But it's not just for school leavers - 41% of college students are over 25, so if you're looking to upskill or retrain, you won't be alone. Colleges offer outstanding support to students at every stage, and they're a key part of the Scottish Government's Young Person's Guarantee, helping 16-24-year-olds connect to opportunities for the future. College Development Network Get the qualifications and skills that count College opens doors to opportunity - whether you're aiming for university, starting a new career, or retraining in something different. With pathways into further study, skilled work and apprenticeships, colleges are focused on helping you shape a successful future. The vast majority of college leavers move on to positive destinations. Many also use college as a stepping stone to university, with growing numbers progressing directly into second or third year of a degree. Courses are developed in partnership with employers, ensuring students gain the skills that today's workplaces are looking for. And with thousands studying as part of their job, colleges are supporting people to build and grow their careers. Real experience for real jobs Scotland's colleges have strong links with employers and are the largest providers of Modern Apprenticeships. They work hand-in-hand with industry to design relevant, practical courses - giving students a clear edge in the job market with hands-on skills and real-world experience. College Development Network Flexible learning, personalised support, and funding Whether you prefer to study full time, part time, or online, there's a course structure that works for you. College learning is flexible and designed to fit around your life - work, family, or other commitments. Choose from a wide range of options, including entry-level courses, apprenticeships, professional qualifications, and degree programmes. Many colleges also offer online learning to help you boost your career or learn something new. There's also a variety of funding options available - from bursaries and discretionary grants to support for childcare. Your local college can guide you through the process. Whoever you are. Wherever you are. Whatever you want to be. Find your local college at and start your journey today.
Pembrokeshire Herald
23-04-2025
- Business
- Pembrokeshire Herald
£10 million investment to support jobs and health in Wales
First Wales trailblazer launched as part of UK Government's 'Get Britain Working' plan A MAJOR £10 million boost to employment support in Wales has been announced as part of the UK Government's drive to tackle economic inactivity and 'Get Britain Working' again. The first trailblazer programme in Wales, launched in Denbighshire on Monday (Apr 21), will roll out new tailored employment support including one-to-one mentoring, counselling, wellbeing services, and health condition management. The programme was launched jointly by UK Minister for Employment Alison McGovern and Welsh Government Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership Jack Sargeant, marking a shift away from a 'one size fits all' approach in favour of support targeted to local needs. The investment will help people with CV writing, job searching, mental health, and managing health issues that may be holding them back from employment. The trailblazer areas – Denbighshire, Blaenau Gwent, and Neath Port Talbot – were selected for their high levels of economic inactivity and will be among nine areas across the UK to pilot these reforms. During their visit to Working Denbighshire, both Ministers met Work Coaches and saw first-hand the services being offered under the new scheme. Minister for Employment Alison McGovern said: 'Everyone deserves to thrive, including those living with long-term health conditions. 'No one will be written off. This £10 million investment will help connect health and employment services and deliver real change under our Plan for Change. 'Good work provides both dignity and security, and this trailblazer will help people across Wales access that support.' Welsh Government Minister Jack Sargeant added: 'This investment is an important step in our joint approach to supporting people back into good employment. 'By integrating health and employment support, and tailoring it to each community's needs, we aim to provide truly joined-up services. 'The Welsh Government is committed to ensuring no one is left behind.' Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said: 'This £10 million trailblazer will deliver support where it's most needed – in Blaenau Gwent, Denbighshire, and Neath Port Talbot. 'We know this targeted approach works and builds on the success of initiatives like the Young Person's Guarantee. 'Helping people into work improves physical and mental health and raises living standards.' The trailblazers are part of the UK Government's wider £240 million Get Britain Working reforms, which include: Transforming Jobcentres to focus on skills and careers Guaranteeing young people the chance to earn or learn Expanding mental health support to help people stay in work The Wales trailblazer follows the first scheme launched earlier this month in South Yorkshire, which focuses on supporting employers to hire people with health conditions. Upcoming trailblazers will also launch in Greater Manchester, the North East, York and North Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, and three areas in London. In parallel with the trailblazer initiative, the UK Government has also: Increased the National Living Wage and Minimum Wage Introduced the Employment Rights Bill to create more secure jobs Committed to deeper devolution, supporting local and devolved governments to boost regional growth The investment into Wales reflects the Prime Minister's pledge to reset relationships with devolved administrations and empower them to play a leading role in economic growth under the UK's Plan for Change.
