First Minister meets Bridgend College apprentices during National Apprenticeship Week
13/02/2026Bridgend College welcomed the First Minister of Wales to the Persimmon Academy in Llanilid as part of National Apprenticeship Week.
During the visit, the First Minister met with apprentices currently training at the Academy and spoke with them about their experiences of construction training and the opportunities available within the industry. The First Minister was joined by Alex Davies-Jones MP.
The visit also coincided with a session involving students from Mary Immaculate High School, who are currently completing their Level 1 and 2 Constructing the Built Environment qualification. The students took part in practical activities, including tiling and bricklaying demonstrations, with the support of Bridgend College apprentices. Mary Immaculate High School students have been supported with equipment and tools to use as part of their studies. Students will also be returning to the Persimmon Academy to complete the final elements of their practical assessments.
Both the First Minister and Alex Davies-Jones MP took part in practical demonstrations during their visit and spoke with learners about their experiences and progression routes within construction.
âOur partnership with Persimmon is setting a new industry standard for bridging the gap between education and employment. By providing wraparound support and live-site projects, we are offering our students a realistic insight into employment. This approach ensures apprentices have the confidence to stay and progress within their trades.
âPersimmonâs commitment is vital to our mission of strengthening local communities and driving inclusivity – particularly through dedicated projects designed to encourage more women into the industry. Together, we aren’t just teaching trades; we are building sustainable, diverse careers.â
Rachel Lewis, Curriculum Manager for Construction, Bridgend College
The Persimmon Academy supports apprenticeship and work- based learning within the construction sector. Through the Academy, apprentices train in industry-standard facilities while working towards recognised qualifications, combining classroom learning with practical, on-site experience. This continues to support the development of construction skills across South Wales and plays an important role in preparing learners for a pathway to employment within the industry.
âOur innovative partnership with the outstanding Bridgend College – based at our live development in Llanilid – is creating real opportunities for people to develop skills, gain qualifications and build long-term careers within the construction industry.
âBy investing in apprenticeships and working closely with our supply chain, local authorities and government, we are helping to support local employment, strengthen the Welsh economy, provide much-needed housing for local people, and ensure our developments leave a positive and lasting legacy for future generations.â
Sharon Bouhali, Sales Director at Persimmon Homes
The visit formed part of the Collegeâs wider activity marking National Apprenticeship Week, highlighting the important role apprenticeships and employer partnerships play in supporting skills development across Wales.
