Written Statement - Establishment of a task and finish group to review the activities of the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol

The Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol (The Coleg) provides independent oversight, strategic direction, and support to the development of Welsh-medium higher education (HE) across Wales. The activities of the Coleg support the Welsh Government’s Welsh Language Strategy and Welsh-medium Education Strategy.

The Coleg and the development of Welsh-medium provision within the HE sector is a key element in ensuring that our young people, on leaving school can continue to use the language and maintain and develop their language skills for use in future employment.

Following 5 years of operation, it is now an appropriate time to consider the role of the Coleg for the future. Today, I am announcing the establishment of a task and finish group to review the activities of the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol and make recommendations on the way forward. The review will inform future policy and budget decisions regarding the Coleg. As outlined in the Welsh Liberal Democrat manifesto, the review will also consider the relationship between the Coleg and the further education sector.T

he task and finish group will be required to consider the following and provide a report and recommendations to me:

• Is the current model and structure for the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol appropriate and fit for the purpose to promote and develop Welsh-medium HE provision from 2017 onwards. If not, define the future role, activity and structure of the Coleg (or alternative entity), with full consideration of value for money and sustainability.
• What are the future options for funding the Coleg.
• Is the working relationship between the Coleg and Welsh HE institutions suitable for the future.
• Should the Coleg’s remit extend to the post-16 sector (further education and work based learning), and if so, to provide potential options on how to take this forward.
• What is the role of the Coleg in response to the recommendations of the Diamond review and other recent policy developments.

I will appoint a chair in the coming weeks and representation will be sought from key stakeholders with experience and expertise in the field of higher education, further education and Welsh-medium learning.