CPG for Further Education and Skills

ColegauCymru Manifesto 2026 Launch

Tuesday 7 October 2025

Conference Room A, Ty Hywel, and online

Minutes

Introduction

John Griffiths MS, Chair, welcomed everyone to the meeting (both in the room and online).

CPG for FE and Skills AGM

Luke Fletcher MS nominated John Griffiths MS to continue as Chair of the Group (his vote was given in his absence with his permission). His vote was seconded by Mike Hedges MS who also nominated ColegauCymru to continue as Secretariat.

Putting Learners at the Heart of Further Education

Lisa Thomas, Principal of The College Merthyr Tydfil, and Chair of ColegauCymru spoke about the importance of learner voice, and using the Manifesto asks to create an inclusive and enriching environment for all learners in further education.

ColegauCymru Manifesto Overview

David Hagendyk, Chief Executive of ColegauCymru, gave an overview of the Manifesto and the three missions: Grow the economy, improve participation, progression and outcomes, and tackle intergenerational inequality and poverty.

Learner Response – why this matters to learners

James Jones, a BTECH Level 3 learner from Coleg y Cymoedd gave his experience of college, highlighting his reasons for choosing college over sixth form, and the barriers he’s faced.

My experience of FE / My second chance

John Griffiths MS spoke about his experiences of FE.

Discussion

John Griffiths MS asked the group for their comments on the Manifesto. There was strong support for the Manifesto and the missions from all those who contributed to the discussion. Sam Rowlands MS spoke of the importance of using skills as a way to drive growth in the economy. There was discussion around lack of pathways for 14-19 year olds, and how can we reintegrate those young people who drop out of education between 14-16. A further discussion was had around the challenges of increasing demand for mental health support, and how colleges are tackling issues such as racism and misogyny.