£34m funding for learning at work

Aimi Healey ( centre) has helped set up an HR department through her work-based studies

More than £34m is being invested in a work-based learning programme to help thousands of workers across Wales.

The programme, partly funded by the EU, offers staff flexible bite-size learning tailored to workplace needs.

Up to 8,000 workers from west Wales and the valleys who want to improve their skills but are unable to commit to full-time study will benefit.

The scheme will see Welsh universities working with almost 1,000 employers to deliver learning in the workplace.

The University of Glamorgan is leading the scheme with other universities contributing.

Staff will receive credits as they work through modules, and these can be counted towards other higher level qualifications.

Some workers could go onto study as far as post-graduate level through related programmes.

CASE STUDY Aimi Healey, 34, from Tredegar, worked as a PA for Richards & Appleby cosmetics firm but is now a HR administrator, after workplace learning involving the University of Wales, Newport. She now plans to take more modules. "I found the teaching environment incredibly supportive and inspiring. "The opportunity for networking with other class members is invaluable when it comes to working through case studies and real-life employment issues. "The modules I've undertaken have been extremely valuable to me, supporting our entire staff and in understanding and adhering to best practice with regard to many of the issues I encounter daily in my new role."

The progamme is backed by £19.5m from EU convergence funding through the Welsh Assembly Government, and match-funding from higher education institutions and the private sector.

Announcing the £34m project, Education Minister Jane Hutt said: "The work-based learning programme offers a practical solution to those in employment who want to gain higher level skills.

"It will benefit both employers and employees by offering modules that are relevant to businesses whilst helping their workforce improve their skills."

Creative industries

Employers will be encouraged to support work-based learning to improve the skills of staff in areas such as management and construction, with a focus also on sectors such as energy, digital economy and creative industries.

Different ways of learning include taster sessions and a combination of traditional face-to-face teaching with online learning.

The qualifications gained will also help those workers who wish to carry on studying, including for foundation courses towards degrees.

Martyn Jeffries, from the University of Glamorgan, said the programmes were designed to meet the needs of emerging and growing industries.

"It is hoped that the programme make a real impact during this difficult economic time."