At the Senedd this week, five further education colleges, including Pembrokeshire College, have launched a new network of Higher Technical Institutes with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

The network aims to tackle underperformance in Wales’ labour market.

As the economy of Wales recovers post pandemic, and as employees struggle with the cost-of-living crisis, the partnership will utilise the powers of the University of Wales to bring together the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and its constituent colleges, Coleg Sir Gâr and Coleg Ceredigion, as well as the CAVC Group, NPTC Group of Colleges, and Pembrokeshire College to formalise the network.

Pembrokeshire College Principal, Dr Barry Walters commented:“Pembrokeshire College is delighted to be further strengthening its collaborative working with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David which will enable local people to upskill across a broad range of disciplines. With the potential demand for higher level technical skills from the evolving developments locally on the Haven, this collaboration also offers our learners access to provision which will equip them for the emerging jobs opportunities in the Renewable Energy sector.”

The launch was attended by Minister for Education and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles MS.

Jeremy Miles, said:“I welcome this example of collaborative working between FE and HE institutions to strengthen the delivery of higher technical education, innovation and applied research.

“I am committed to ensuring we do everything we can to provide higher-level skills to learners across the entire tertiary education sector. This exciting new partnership demonstrates just what providers from across the sector can achieve when they work together.”

The event was sponsored by Elin Jones MS, the Presiding Officer and included an introduction to the network by Mike James, Chief Executive, CAVC Group on behalf of the FE partners.

Mike James said: “Each of our colleges has built strong partnerships with universities in Wales and we are committed to continuing this. This exciting new partnership offers a cohesive, dual-sector built on genuine partnership and cooperation.”