Page 69 - Regional Employment & Skills Plan

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Recommendation
There should be an increase in level 2 and 3 specialist construction provision in both vocational and work- based learning to ensure an adequate supply of skilled individuals to the sector. Entry and level 1 vocational provision should sufficiently support this.
6. The development of the Swansea Bay Tidal Lagoon and other significant energy developments across the region provide a high demand for a number of engineering roles. These roles require specialist knowledge for which there is currently insufficient provision across the region.
Recommendation
There should be an increase of level 3+ vocational and work-based learning provision within specialist engineering areas, including; electrical engineering, fabrication and welding and civil and marine engineering. There is a need to ensure that skills pathways to higher level skills are available, including graduate and post-graduate levels.
7. The IT and Telecoms sector is fast-paced and growing rapidly, developments such as the internet coast and superfast exploitation create a substantial opportunity for the region. Provider and employer consulta- tions indicate that provision and qualifications in the area are not fit for purpose. Furthermore, there is also the issue of a lack of quality instructors with the correct expertise to deliver provision.
Recommendation
In the first instance, qualification frameworks should be reviewed to ensure that provision is timely and in line with the needs of employers and the sector generally. Engagement within the sector is largely male-dominated, therefore more needs to be done to ensure the sector becomes attractive to females both for learners and instructors/educators. There needs to be an increase in both vocational and work-based learner numbers, primarily at levels 2 and 3. There is a need to ensure that skills pathways to higher level skills are available, including graduate and post-graduate levels within ICT and computing.
8. The Leisure and Tourism sector is one of importance to the region and evidence suggests that there is a lack of appropriate provision available to support the sector. Employer consultation indicated that there are a number of barriers to training in the sector, these include but are not limited to - the lack of flexibility of courses, staff time and cost (this is especially the case for micro and small enterprises).
Recommendation
Provision within the sector should be focussed on specialised business development and customer service and not so focussed on the travel element of the sector. Provision delivered on a largely part-time basis and in short intervals would allow the flexibility demanded by employers.
9. With developments including the Bay Studios, Yr Egin and the relocation of S4C to Carmarthen, the Creative Industries sector is becoming more prevalent in the region. This has brought with it a focus on the appropriateness of the media and design provision currently on offer in the region. Employer consultation and secondary evidence suggests that there is a high demand for individuals with digital media and broadcasting skills, as well as those with specialised technical skills and those with high calibre Welsh skills.
Recommendation
There should be a reduction in traditional performing arts courses coupled with a far more specialised offer within the arts and entertainment sub-sector. Furthermore, where possible, provision should be offered bilingually or through the medium of Welsh.
Regional Employment & Skills Plan South West & Mid Wales Conclusions & Recommendations