Ysgol Gymraeg Calon y Cymoedd claims the Gold Siarter Iaith Award

Ysgol Gymraeg Calon y Cymoedd is the latest school in Bridgend County Borough to receive the much-coveted Siarter Iaith Gold Award. The sought-after accolade reflects the school’s efforts in following the Siarter Iaith - a Welsh Government programme designed for Welsh-medium and bilingual settings to inspire learners to celebrate Welsh language and culture in every aspect of their lives.

The committed members of the school’s Criw Cymraeg have encouraged Welsh language and identity to permeate the wider community. Fun and engaging strategies have included supporting pupils from Betws Primary School to learn Welsh through an array of activities, including playing Welsh yard games; linking with the local community and teaching Welsh phrases to residents from the nearby village, as well as raising the profile of Welsh songs across the age groups within the school through organised, community-based singing events.

Ollie, a member of the Criw Cymraeg, said: “I feel privileged to be part of the Criw Cymraeg and have enjoyed collaborating with Betws Primary School and helping them with their Welsh." Another pupil, Willow, added: "I have enjoyed going around the village teaching people Welsh phrases. It’s been fun!"

Miss Jones, lead for the Siarter Iaith initiative at the school, said: "The Criw worked as a team and have successfully raised awareness of the Welsh language in the school community - I am extremely proud of each and every one of them."

Headteacher, Catrin Coulthard, said: “This award reflects the dedication and passion of our entire school community – staff, pupils, parents, governors, and our wider partners. Our Criw Cymraeg have been truly inspiring, leading by example and encouraging others to embrace the Welsh language in a fun and meaningful way.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has contributed to this amazing achievement – you’ve made a real difference to the life of our school. Let’s celebrate this success together and look forward to building on these strong foundations – keeping Welsh alive and thriving in our school and community every day!”

Cllr Martyn Jones, Cabinet Member for Education and Youth Services, said: “Well done to everyone involved in helping to achieve this fantastic success.”

“It’s wonderful to see the creativity and passion of the learners driving the promotion of Welsh language and culture within the locality."

“The pupils have embraced this opportunity to engage their community in learning about the heritage and language of Wales. I’m very proud of you all and extremely grateful to the staff who have supported you along the way! The commitment and dedication of all involved are recognised through this award. Superb!”