Jack Sargeant
Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Welsh Labour GroupThis year marks 25 years of devolution in Wales, and one of its greatest achievements to date is how the Senedd and the Welsh Government have led the way on sustainability. Jack Sargent discusses the transformative steps Wales is taking to build a sustainable future, focusing on groundbreaking legislation, educational reforms, and initiatives to support a green economy and the workforce of tomorrow.
At the heart of that approach has been something I know my father was extremely proud to have helped deliver – the introduction in 2015 of the Well-being of Future Generations Act. This groundbreaking legislation is a world first that requires public bodies in Wales to think about the long-term impact of their decisions; to work better with people, communities, and each other; and to prevent persistent problems, such as climate change.
Many other organisations, large and small, are also part of this movement because they want to be part of the ‘Team Wales’ approach.
The Curriculum for Wales, which commenced roll-out in 2022, represents the biggest change to what and how learners learn in Wales since devolution. This transformational new approach has been built by teachers and experts to prepare our learners for a changing world. One of its four purposes is to develop our young people as ethical, informed citizens, ready to be active citizens of Wales and the world – with building an understanding of climate change and sustainability mandatory.
This emphasis on purpose, relevance, and real-life contexts in learning gives learners the opportunity to connect their learning in different subjects and areas. We know that this ability to make connections, transfer understanding and think critically about learning is a key skill to thrive in the workplace.
Alongside our new curriculum, it is vital that qualifications change to reflect what and how learners are now taught. From September 2025, following extensive consultation, newly designed ‘made for Wales’ GCSEs will replace the existing GCSE offer available to most learners aged 14 to 16.
Furthermore, from September 2027, Wales will introduce the Vocational Certificate of Secondary Education (VCSE) for 14 to 16-year-olds.
I’m particularly excited about the new work-related VCSE qualification that will sit side by side with GCSEs and really raise the profile of vocational learning in schools, supporting learners’ transition to post-16 study.
It will mean that all learners – whatever their interests, aptitude, or ability – will be able to gain recognition and reward for what they know, understand and can do.
In addition, our Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales project delivers activities linked to skills competitions that raise awareness of vocational education and training and career pathways.
I am also very proud that in Wales, 90 per cent of schools across every local authority take part in the Eco-Schools programme. This equates to more than 400,000 pupils – one of the highest participation rates in the world!
Wales also has a strong Further Education sector, which plays a vital role in delivering skills to learners of all ages. Colleges and independent training providers offer a range of courses and qualifications that cover various aspects of an individual’s career, from post-16 education to upskilling and career change reskilling. Many of the courses are fully funded and free as part of the Welsh Government’s funding arrangement with colleges.
Courses containing sustainability aspects or which intrinsically contribute to Net Zero-related careers, are increasingly being offered – from technical skills in engineering, construction, or agriculture to cross-cutting skills in leadership, digital literacy, and sustainability in the workplace.
Many colleges have invested heavily in their Net Zero provision, introducing specific skills hubs and academies to enhance the training offered.
The Welsh Government offers fully funded training through a network of Apprenticeship Training providers and associated frameworks. We have a funded apprenticeships offer around Net Zero skills and we plan to incorporate new and revised qualifications as they are developed to meet the changing needs of industry.
Wales also has an active Higher Education sector that is investing in and ensuring that the skills and cutting-edge research are there to meet the ambitions that will enable a low-carbon energy future.
Since August 2024, Medr – the new Commission for Tertiary Education and Research in Wales – has become the first-ever national steward for the whole tertiary education and research sector. The Commission will be responsible for the funding, oversight, and quality of the tertiary education sector and will take a system-wide view, shaping a new structure and system that better supports our learners.
All of this is underpinned by a commitment in our Programme for Government – the Young Person’s Guarantee – an ambitious programme providing 16 to 24-year-olds in Wales with support to gain a place in education or training, or support to get into work or self-employment.
I’m very familiar with what that support looks and feels like, and what a difference it can make to lives and livelihoods, having come through an apprentice graduate scheme myself in engineering thanks to Welsh Government support.
A key part of my role is to now ensure we create and support an environment where a pipeline of skilled and talented individuals are afforded the same opportunity to thrive in sustainable, skilled work – one of our seven key priorities within our 2023 Net Zero Skills Action Plan. This will be crucial in helping meet our Net Zero commitments and transition to a greener economy whilst also ensuring the long-term prosperity of our future workforce.
To hear more insights from Chamber UK, sign up to our newsletter here!