Post-16 learning decline 'shocking', Colleges Wales says

Wales has 14 further education colleges

Welsh colleges have called for urgent action after a "shocking" decline in the number of people studying in colleges, the community or workplaces over the past decade.

Welsh Government figures for the last academic year showed there were 195,700 people enrolled on courses.

This compared to 311,145 in 2005/6 - a fall of more than a third.

Part time study fell 16% over the last recorded year.

The sector has faced significant budget cuts over recent years, though colleges have been awarded a stable budget for next year.

'Quite shocking'

Chief executive of Colleges Wales Iestyn Davies said: "Over the last 10 years, the number people learning beyond compulsory schooling has dropped by well over 100,000. That's a drop of one third. It's really quite shocking."

His organisation represents 14 further education (FE) colleges and institutions in Wales.

Mr Davies added part-time education for adults "desperately" needed investment.

"Despite looking at a steady budget for further education colleges and an increase to the apprenticeships budget for next year recently agreed for 2016/17, it will take many years of sustained investment to address this long term decline in learning."