Posted on: Wednesday 5 July 2023
Today, the first set of pupils from Torfaen’s newly established Welsh Language Immersion Unit – Carreg Lam, have graduated.
Nine pupils completed the 12-week education programme, learning the Welsh Language in a structured and innovative way.
They will now join their main-stream classes and will continue to be supported by the centre in their schools before the next round of pupils arrive in September.
Carreg Lam, which means ‘stepping stone’, opened in April and is a late immersion provision unit set up to help learners aged 7 to 11, entering Welsh-medium education at a later stage.
It also caters for pupils for whom Welsh may not have been part of their daily routine, to gain the skills and confidence needed to continue their learning through Welsh.
Head Teacher at Carreg Lam, Matthew Dicken-Williamson, said: “Today, we have joined together to celebrate the success of nine wonderful children. We also met to celebrate the richness and resilience of the Welsh language and to emphasise the importance of bilingualism in our society.
“The Welsh language holds a special place in our hearts, as it is not just a means of communication but a symbol of our cultural heritage and identity.”
Councillor Richard Clark, Torfaen Councils Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, awarded the children with certificates and plaques, acknowledging their exceptional commitment and accomplishments.
Councillor Clark said: "I want to extend my congratulations to these exceptional children for their dedication, commitment, and outstanding achievements.
“They have paved the way for future generations, setting a high standard of excellence and serving as an inspiration to their peers."
Do you want to know more about how your child could learn the Welsh language,
Carreg Lam could be the very thing for you!
Contact the centre by emailing carreg-lam@torfaen.gov.uk or visit the website: www.carreg-lam.com