Posted on: Wednesday 8 October 2025
Torfaen’s Welsh Immersion Unit ‘Carreg Lam’ is celebrating a milestone as it welcomes its 100th learner to its immersive Welsh-language programme.
Over 12 weeks, the specialist centre in Pontypool delivers intensive, theme-based Welsh language support to help primary-aged children transition into Welsh-medium education or strengthen their existing skills.
Seven-year-old Ivor Edwards began his Welsh language education journey full-time with Carreg Lam in September, after transferring from an English-medium school.
He said: “I’ve had lots of fun so far. I love reading and all the fun games we play. It helps me to learn how to speak Welsh really well.“
Carreg Lam, which opened in 2023, supports children aged 7 to 11 by offering a dedicated pathway into Welsh-medium education for parents who want their child to learn through the Welsh language.
The centre offers focused immersion courses built around real-life themes such as ‘The Café’ and ‘The Park’ all designed to boost children’s confidence in using the Welsh language helping them access the Curriculum for Wales.
It mixes targeted language tuition with hands-on activities, trips and social learning to accelerate spoken proficiency and classroom readiness.
Ivor’s mum, Tammy, said: “We are so proud of his achievements so far. He has learnt lots of Welsh vocabulary. Carreg Lam is giving our child the language skills to join a Welsh-language school."
Dr. Matthew Williamson-Dicken, the centre’s Headteacher, said: “It is a joy to welcome our 100th learner to Carreg Lam! This milestone celebrates every child and family who have attended our centre, and we look forward to welcoming the next 100.
“Carreg Lam remains committed to supporting Torfaen’s contribution to national Welsh-language ambitions by preparing pupils to thrive in Welsh-medium settings and to enjoy bilingual futures - proving that it is never too late to learn Welsh.”
Cllr Richard Clark, Torfaen Council's Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, said: “As a council, we are proud to champion children, young people and families so they can thrive. Carreg Lam’s success in welcoming its 100th learner is a powerful reflection of our commitment to expanding educational opportunities through the Welsh language.
"By supporting immersive programmes like this, we are not only helping pupils’ transition confidently into Welsh-medium education but also contributing meaningfully to the Welsh Government’s Cymraeg 2050 vision of one million Welsh speakers."
Parents seeking information about referrals, course dates and outreach visits can contact Carreg Lam by emailing carreg-lam@torfaen.gov.uk or by visiting the centre’s website www.carreg-lam.com