A first for Ysgol Y Creuddyn with the Siarter Iaith

A first for Ysgol Y Creuddyn with the Siarter Iaith

Siarter Iaith - Ysgol Y Creuddyn

Ysgol y Creuddyn, has become the first secondary school in the county to receive the Siarter Iaith Bronze award.

The Siarter Iaith initiative (Welsh Language Charter), endorsed by the Welsh Government, has been active in primary schools since 2016 and was launched for Welsh language secondary schools in 2024.

It’s designed to complement the curriculum by promoting learners use of Welsh and an increased awareness of Welsh culture, aiming to inspire children and young people to use and enjoy Welsh in all aspects of their lives. Its sister programme, Cymraeg Campus, runs in all English-medium schools.

Ysgol y Creuddyn has worked over the academic year to embed the Siarter Iaith as part of its day to day activities. The school’s activities included celebrating Dydd Santes Dwynwen and Dydd Miwsig Cymru. They also had residential trips to the Urdd centre at Glan Llyn, held a school Eisteddfod, invited guest speakers to talk about study and work opportunities through Welsh, and learned about Welsh traditions, history and culture.

Following a successful validation visit at the end of June, they were presented with their certificate.

Ysgol Y Creuddyn Headteacher, Miss Gwenno Davies, said, “We are extremely proud to be the first secondary school in Conwy to achieve the Siarter Iaith Bronze Award. It reflects the enthusiasm, creativity and commitment of our pupils and staff. We’re now excited to continue our journey towards the Silver Award next year.”

Dr Morgan Dafydd, Siarter Iaith Co-ordinator at Conwy County Borough Council, added, “It’s been a pleasure to work with the school. Their passion for the Welsh language shines through in everything they do, and they fully deserve this recognition. I look forward to working with them as they continue their Siarter journey.”

Cllr Julie Fallon, Conwy’s Cabinet Member for Education, said, “I’m delighted that Ysgol y Creuddyn has achieved this award. It reflects the hard work of everyone at the school to create a strong Welsh ethos.”

Primary Schools in Conwy County awarded the following Siarter Iaith Cymraeg awards:

• Post-Gold Award – Ysgol Betws yn Rhos, Ysgol Morfa Rhianedd, Ysgol Glan Morfa, Ysgol Penmachno,
• Gold Award – Ysgol Bod Alaw

Information about Siarter Cymraeg - https://www.gov.wales/cymraeg-education/schools/welsh-language-charter