Hannah Blythyn MS has welcomed the introduction of new Level 2 construction apprenticeships, describing the move as a major step forward in strengthening Wales’s skills pipeline and supporting future careers.

From later this year, new apprenticeship pathways in bricklaying, site carpentry, scaffolding and building maintenance will be available across Wales. The courses have been developed by Medr, with Welsh Government funding, in partnership with Qualifications Wales and industry providers.

The new routes will widen access to apprenticeships and help address skills shortages in the construction sector, which plays a vital role in supporting housing, infrastructure and economic growth.

Since 2022, construction apprenticeships have mainly begun at Level 3. The introduction of Level 2 pathways will give learners more flexibility and provide additional entry points into skilled employment.

As part of her ongoing work in the Senedd, Hannah Blythyn MS has consistently championed apprenticeships, vocational learning and lifelong skills. She has raised the importance of further education funding, worked closely with local colleges and training providers, and supported initiatives that help young people and adults retrain for secure, well-paid work.

Hannah also regularly engages with employers, education providers and learners across her constituency to ensure training opportunities reflect local and regional needs.

Commenting on the announcement, Hannah Blythyn MS said:

“These new construction apprenticeships will be welcome news for learners, employers and communities right across Wales. They will open up opportunities for people who want to develop practical skills and build rewarding careers.

“Apprenticeships are a powerful way to boost confidence, raise aspirations and strengthen our economy.

“Skills are central to that, from the outset to ongoing opportunities to upskill. North-East Wales has seen the most significant investment into skills of anywhere in Wales, with over £1.25 million of Flexible Skills Programme fund.

“In the Senedd, I will continue to champion skills, further education and lifelong learning, so that everyone has the chance to succeed.”

Hannah Blythyn MS has raised the importance of placing people at the heart of economic growth. She has previously stressed that building a strong Welsh economy depends on investing in the workforce, from entry-level training through to ongoing opportunities to upskill and retrain.

She has also championed the Welsh Government’s Flexible Skills Programme, which has seen over £1.25 million of funding agreed in North-East Wales, the highest level of investment anywhere in the country. The programme has delivered significant support to employers and learners involving 18 business and training over 5000 workers.

The announcement follows confirmation that the Welsh Government has delivered 100,000 apprenticeships over the past four years, highlighting its long-term commitment to skills development.

Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant, recently visited Excel Home Design in Pontyclun during National Apprenticeship Week, meeting apprentices currently training in the sector.

Industry leaders, including Medr, Qualifications Wales and the Federation of Master Builders, have welcomed the new pathways, stressing their importance in supporting small firms and tackling workforce shortages.

Hannah Blythyn MS added:

“Small and local businesses play a crucial role in training the next generation of skilled workers. These new routes will help them continue that vital work, while giving learners more choice and support.

“I will keep working with partners locally and nationally to make sure skills and apprenticeships remain at the heart of our plans for Wales.”