Cardiff Capital Region welcomes first cohort of graduates to new scheme

Cardiff Capital Region Graduate Scheme. Image: Huw John, Cardiff.

The Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) yesterday (September 16) welcomed the first cohort of graduates to its new scheme aimed at enhancing productivity, innovation and economic growth.

Speaking at the launch event, Councillor Debbie Wilcox, Leader of Newport City Council and Cardiff Capital Region Cabinet Member for Learning, Skills and Talent said:

“The pilot of the CCR Graduate Scheme is an example of how the City Deal is working with partners to respond to the needs of employers.”

“By supporting businesses with recruitment, human resources and marketing, the CCR Graduate Scheme aims to release untapped graduate recruitment potential and give a platform to employers that struggle to access the graduate market.”

“Over the coming months, we will continue to support businesses to deliver more graduate positions, including the new jobs that are currently being advertised on the scheme’s website.”

The programme is being delivered in partnership with the University of South Wales, Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, the Open University in Wales, and business representative groups.

Commenting on the CCR Graduate Scheme, Sam O’Neill, Senior Finance Broker at Clifton Private Finance said “[We] found it not only useful but very enjoyable. You have a great set up and [we] can only seeing it growing further.”

The scheme provides graduates with a qualification, an induction and various networking opportunities to help to instil a commitment to continuing professional development over the course of their careers.