As part of Apprenticeship Week Wales 2026, Gower College Swansea Principal Paul Kift highlights the benefits apprenticeships bring to learners, employers and the wider Welsh economy.
In today’s fast-evolving economy, businesses face constant pressure to stay competitive, innovative and productive. One highly effective strategy is apprenticeships and, at Gower College Swansea, we see daily the transformative impact they have on businesses across Wales.
Apprenticeships have moved beyond traditional vocational roles to include pathways in leadership, management and professional sectors. Degree apprenticeships are also driving business productivity and success. Employers increasingly recognise their strategic value: apprenticeships help shape talent, bridge skills gaps, improve retention and reduce recruitment costs.
We collaborate with 673 employers and support nearly 3,000 apprentices each year, tailoring programmes and co-creating training solutions aligned to organisational goals. Our provision has earned national recognition, including awards from the Annual Apprenticeship Conference and the TES FE Awards, with a further 2026 shortlist for Diversity and Inclusion.
Upskilling and reskilling with apprenticeships
Apprenticeships aren’t just for new hires - they’re a powerful way to develop existing staff. As industries adapt to new technologies and changing demand, apprenticeships provide a structured, cost-effective skills and recruitment solution.
We partner with businesses across Wales to design tailored programmes for employees. Employers including Admiral, GE Aviation, TUI, Ecolab and Bluestone benefit from our provision, alongside Welsh SMEs, microbusinesses and public sector organisations.
Tailored solutions for every business
As an award-winning provider, Gower College Swansea works with businesses of all sizes, delivering programmes that are flexible, responsive, and aligned with industry standards. Our offering spans sectors like:
Digital and IT: Addressing tech skills gaps with programmes in software development, digital media and digital skills for business.
Business Administration and Leadership: Enhancing operational efficiency across industries.
Facilities Management: Covering operational estates and safety management.
Health and Social Care: Training skilled carers to support communities.
Breaking down barriers
Despite the clear benefits, some businesses hesitate due to perceived challenges. At Gower College Swansea, we address these concerns directly through:
Simplified administration: Our team manages the setup and paperwork.
Customised training: We co-create bespoke programmes tailored to your specific needs.
Funding guidance: We help businesses navigate funding options and access grants
The road ahead
More than ever, apprenticeships are a tool for growth. By investing in them, businesses are not only addressing today’s challenges but building a resilient workforce for the future.
Energybuild Ltd achieves £1.2 million annual benefit through fully funded training
Apprenticeships have the greatest impact when they form part of a wider culture of workforce development and continuous improvement. Alongside formal apprenticeship pathways, Gower College Swansea works with employers to deliver professional training that enhances operational performance while contributing to the strength of the wider Welsh economy.
Our partnership with Energybuild Ltd demonstrates how targeted, fully funded training can translate directly into measurable financial and productivity gains. Through Business Improvement Techniques (BIT) qualifications, employees developed practical lean and continuous improvement skills and applied them to real workplace processes.
The outcomes were significant. Improved efficiencies and productivity increases generated an estimated £1.2 million in annual financial benefit, combining substantial cost savings with increased production capacity.
If you’re looking to further develop your business, email training@gcs.ac.uk