Students Alys and Kirsti take part in political learner panel to help shape the future of further education in Wales
Students from Coleg Sir Gâr and Coleg Ceredigion took their voices to Cardiff to take part in a high-profile learner panel on further education and skills.
Held at Gwersyll yr Urdd, facilitated by Colegau Cymru and chaired by Gower College Swansea’s Student Union Officer, Rose Wahbi, the meeting explored post-16 participation and the experiences of learners in tertiary education.
Senedd members and sector leaders attended along with students from Pembrokeshire College, Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, Coleg Sir Gâr, Cardiff and Vale College, and Coleg Cambria.
The event raised questions such as what influenced their decision to go to college and the advice and options available to them, personal and financial barriers, college employer partnerships, progression advice, support for wellbeing and mental health, support to help those in rural areas, low-income households and ethnic minorities and flexible study options.
The idea was to hear from students directly about their journey within the further education sector to help influence decisions of education leaders.
From Coleg Sir Gâr and Coleg Ceredigion, students Kirsi Straw, an A-level student who is also the Student Union Vice Principal at the college attended with fellow student Alys Mosey, who is studying a foundation course in art and design and is the Vice President of the college’s Job’s Well campus.
Kirsti Straw said: “The opportunity to speak to Senedd members, principals and members of educational organisations allowed both Alys and I to talk on the real and relevant issues impacting students and student progression across Wales.
“Discussion around support for learners, funding for colleges and information around next steps and opportunities within Wales is integral to our work within the Students Union so I am thankful to have represented our college in this way.”
Alys Mosey added: “It was a bit nerve-racking at first especially since I’ve never done anything like that before, but I think it’s really helped to boost my confidence with Student Union related things.
“But overall, I really enjoyed the experience and I’d love to do something like that again if given the chance because it means that I get that extra push to improve college life for future students.”
The Students Union at Coleg Sir Gâr and Coleg Ceredigion is an active team of student officers who act as a voice for all students across all campuses to ensure that students are fully represented and their views are heard.
