The first fully funded Construction Degree Apprenticeships in Wales have been introduced at Wrexham University in collaboration with Coleg Cambria.

The landmark occasion was celebrated at the University's Plas Coch campus in Wrexham.

The course offerings, funded by the Welsh Government, include Building Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management and Quantity Surveying.

Fully funded, the apprenticeships will begin in September 2024, spanning four years.

Students will reap the double benefits of earning a degree while garnering practical hands-on experience.

These programmes are designed to meet the Welsh Government Framework's stipulations, alongside the requirements of professional bodies.

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In addition, these new training opportunities serve a wider range of students.

Professor Maria Hinfelaar, vice-chancellor at Wrexham University, said: "We are delighted to have launched our Construction Degree Apprenticeships – in partnership with Coleg Cambria – in Building Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, which are the first to be fully funded by the Welsh Government.

"As a University, we continuously review our portfolio and learning pathways across all levels to meet the needs of learners and employers – and the Construction Degree Apprenticeships are a tremendous example of meeting those needs.

"From engagement with employers in the region, we know that they are excited that these are launching here in Wrexham."

Karl Jackson, site lead at Coleg Cambria Bersham Road and assistant principal for the Institute of Technology, echoed this joy about the collaboration with Wrexham University.

Karl Jackson, Site Lead at Coleg Cambria Bersham Road and Assistant Principal for the Institute of Technology  (Image: Wrexham University)

He said: "We are delighted to collaborate with Wrexham University on the new Degree Apprenticeship qualifications, a suite of programmes that will further enhance our existing Higher Education Construction courses.

"The Degree Apprenticeships offer a great opportunity for students to gain practical experience while earning their degree and will provide them with valuable skills and knowledge, combining academic learning with on-the-job training.

"This approach not only helps learners understand the theoretical aspects of construction but also allows them to apply what they've learned in real-world situations, making them highly competent and employable."

Dr Janet Young, director general of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) added: "This new Degree Apprenticeship will play a key role in inspiring and creating a new and diverse generation of engineers for Wales and the wider UK.

"It also contributes to the ambition and implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals that will benefit current and future generations."

Gareth Williams, standards and qualifications manager (Wales) for the Construction Industry Training Board, welcomed these apprenticeships as a significant milestone, providing clear pathways into the industry.

He said: "The launch of these apprenticeships also demonstrates a sector pulling together in a shared direction to overcome industry and broader challenges.

"We look forward to seeing the first cohort of people sign up for these apprenticeships."

Jeremy Miles, cabinet secretary for the Economy, Energy, and Welsh Language, has said: "These programmes not only prepare individuals for high-demand jobs and higher wage occupations, but will also ensure a skilled, resilient and forward-looking workforce to drive economic growth and provide innovative solutions to social and climate challenges."