Award-winning scheme celebrates over 1,000 apprentices with landmark event at former Royal Estate

Cyfle Building Skills has officially celebrated a major milestone – having supported over 1,000 apprentices through its award-winning Shared Apprenticeship Scheme – with a special event held at the prestigious Llwynywermod Estate, the former Welsh residence of King Charles.

The event, which took place on Friday, 19th September 2025, brought together apprentices past and present, industry leaders, training providers, and employers from across South West Wales to mark the occasion. Many former apprentices have gone on to start their own companies and now employ apprentices themselves through the very same scheme – creating a cycle of skills, success, and opportunity.

Since its inception, the Cyfle Shared Apprenticeship Scheme has played a vital role in transforming lives and communities – helping individuals access rewarding careers in construction, and tackling the industry’s ongoing skills gap. To date, the scheme has generated an estimated £23 million in apprentice wages, directly contributing to the regional economy and supporting hundreds of businesses.

Recipients of a Queen’s award for Enterprise 2020: Promoting Opportunity through Social Mobility, the Cyfle Shared Apprenticeship Scheme involves a unique collaboration with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), Welsh Government, five Local Colleges, one University and three Training Groups operating within the Region.

Speaking at the event, Anthony Rees, Regional Manager, Cyfle Building Skills, said:

“This milestone is not just about numbers – it’s about people. It’s about giving young people a chance, building careers, and investing in the future of the construction industry in Wales. We are incredibly proud of every apprentice who has come through our doors.”

Held in the picturesque surroundings of Llwynywermod Estate in Carmarthenshire, the celebration featured speeches, apprentice success stories, and networking between alumni and industry figures. The historic venue, once home to King Charles during his visits to Wales, added an extra sense of occasion to a day dedicated to building futures.

As Cyfle looks ahead to the next chapter, the focus remains firmly on providing opportunities, nurturing talent, and working collaboratively with partners across the construction sector.

For more information about Cyfle Building Skills and its Shared Apprenticeship Scheme, visit www.cyflebuilding.co.uk