Post-16 learners felt the pandemic’s impact differently, depending on what they were studying or training in. This also meant that outcomes were noticeably different across groups of learners.
For example, some apprenticeships continued but others were affected by Furlough and redundancies. And adult learning, including Welsh for adults, was often moved online rather than in community venues.
Learners shared with us their worries about end-of-course assessments and their move to the next stage of their education, training or work.
We also noted frustration at changes and delays in assessment arrangements for vocational qualifications - heightening feelings at a continued lack of parity in esteem with academic qualifications.
In the further education and work-based learning sectors, assessment for the purpose of qualifications and accreditation remained a priority. But there were challenges, particularly where learners needed to undertake practical assessments.
Youth workers proved themselves invaluable. Their broad and adaptive set of skills were an essential contribution to the lives of young people during this difficult time.
This is just a brief picture of some of the main issues in post-16 sectors. Read more in the full annual report.
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