Medr launches new approach to apprenticeships in Wales

Medr has launched a new process designed to open up opportunities to deliver apprenticeships from August 2027.

The new Apprenticeship Programme will, for the first time, offer grants to a network of providers who can deliver apprenticeships throughout a range of sector frameworks from Agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care to Transport, Automotive, Engineering and Logistics.

The Programme will also be supported by a new way of funding apprenticeship frameworks that will provide clearer progression pathways and support more flexible delivery.

The new Programme has been developed following extensive engagement and consultation with learners, employers, industry bodies, providers and other partners across Wales, and aims to create an apprenticeship system that:

• responds quickly to skills needs and economic priorities
• learners and employers can more easily understand and navigate
• improves the experience for learners, including clearer progression pathways, better support, more flexibility, and increased opportunities in Welsh, and
• better involves employers in shaping apprenticeship frameworks.

James Owen, Chief Executive of Medr, said:

“The Apprenticeships Programme has delivered significant benefits to learners, employers and Wales.

“As the current programme draws to a close, we have a chance to redesign how apprenticeships are offered in Wales to better reflect ever-evolving workforce requirements and learner expectations, and take advantage of the opportunities the creation of Medr has brought to the tertiary education and skills landscape.

“We’ve listened to what learners, employers and providers told us during our consultation on the future of apprenticeships in Wales. The new programme reflects that feedback and will be more responsive to employer demand, support learners throughout their careers, and help Wales develop the skills needed for future economic growth.

“The new programme gives fresh opportunities for providers who can show that they have the organisational capability, leadership, financial resilience and delivery capacity necessary to work in partnership to deliver the Wales’ apprenticeship provision from 2027.

“For employers, the new programme aims to respond to workforce needs and supports skills development across Wales.

“Current and future apprentices can be confident of high-quality learning, progression and positive outcomes that increasingly prepare them for the changing world of work.”

Full details about the application process for prospective providers, eligibility and funding can be found on Medr’s website:

Apprenticeship Programme in Wales: grant application

Notes

Applications are open to a range of organisations, including existing providers, new entrants, further education institutions, higher education institutions, charitable organisations, public sector organisations and collaborative partnerships.

Prospective providers must submit an initial application to demonstrate that they meet Medr’s conditions of funding by 2 October 2026.

An information online event will take place at 11:00 on 8 September 2026 for potential providers that are interested in submitting an application to deliver the Apprenticeship Programme in Wales. This can be booked via Eventbrite.