Cymraeg
At Ysgol Bryn Gwalia, we are dedicated to integrating the Welsh language into every aspect of school life. To support this commitment, we have joined Cymraeg Campus and are actively working towards our Silver Award. Our Criw Cymraeg, a passionate group of students, is at the forefront of this initiative, encouraging everyone to speak Welsh throughout the school. They promote the 'Patrwm yr Wythnos' (Pattern of the Week) to inspire children, staff, parents, carers, and visitors to participate.
Our school is focused on meeting the goals of the Cymraeg Campus Language Charter, aiming to increase the use of Welsh among pupils, staff, and the wider community. We are striving to achieve three awards—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—each with ten specific targets. Currently, our efforts are centered on attaining our Gold Award with the Criw Cymraeg playing a vital role in leading and promoting the Welsh language across the school.
Award
We are so proud to have achieved the Cymraeg Campus Silver Award in the Autumn Term 2024.
Our goal is now to achieve the Gold Award.
Useful Websites:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zqsv7p3
https://www.s4c.cymru/e/dysgu-cymraeg/
Urdd
At Ysgol Bryn Gwalia, we are incredibly proud to be a part of Wales and its rich cultural heritage. Each year, we enthusiastically participate in the Urdd, embracing the spirit of competition and community. Our students have not only taken part but have also achieved success in various competitions, showcasing their talents and dedication. These experiences foster a deep sense of pride and connection to our Welsh identity, enriching our school community and inspiring our children to celebrate their roots.
Urdd Club
Each week, children have the opportunity to join the after-school Urdd Club, where they engage in a variety of fun activities conducted in Welsh, celebrating our rich heritage and culture. This club provides a fantastic platform for students to immerse themselves in the language while participating in creative projects, games, and performances that highlight Welsh traditions.
The Urdd Club not only enhances language skills but also fosters teamwork and friendship as children work together on group activities. Through storytelling, crafts, and music, they develop a deeper appreciation for Welsh culture and history.
Additionally, the club often organizes events and outings that connect students with the wider community, allowing them to see the relevance of the Welsh language in everyday life. This engagement reinforces their sense of identity and belonging, as they learn to take pride in their language and culture.
Overall, the Urdd Club is a vibrant and supportive environment that encourages students to explore their creativity, make new friends, and strengthen their connection to Wales.
The Importance of Learning Welsh
At Ysgol Bryn Gwalia, we believe that learning Welsh is essential for several reasons.
Firstly, it fosters a strong connection to our cultural heritage and identity, allowing students to appreciate the rich history and traditions of Wales. Secondly, being bilingual opens up numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth, enhancing communication skills and employability in a diverse job market.
Additionally, learning Welsh promotes inclusivity within our community, enabling students to engage with peers and locals who speak the language. It also supports cognitive development, as studies show that bilingualism can improve problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills.
Ultimately, by prioritising Welsh language education, we empower our students to embrace their roots while preparing them for a bright future.
Weekly Welsh Assembly
Every Wednesday, our Criw Cymraeg leads our Welsh assembly to introduce a new language pattern. During this time, we also celebrate students who have spoken a lot of Welsh throughout the week by giving out awards. This practice is important for several reasons.
Firstly, it reinforces the use of the Welsh language in a fun and engaging way, encouraging all students to participate actively. Recognising and rewarding those who speak Welsh fosters a positive environment where language use is celebrated and valued.
Secondly, it helps build confidence in students’ language skills, motivating them to continue speaking Welsh outside formal settings. This weekly assembly also serves to create a sense of community, as students come together to share their achievements and support each other in their language learning journey.
Ultimately, by integrating these assemblies into our routine, we are not only promoting the Welsh language but also nurturing a culture of pride and enthusiasm for our heritage amongst all students.