Language centre
Page updated on: 05/03/2025
In accordance with the Carmarthenshire Welsh Language Strategic Plan, schools in the area teach bilingually. To ensure that your child integrates effectively into the new school and local area, there is a worthwhile opportunity for your child to learn Welsh by attending an intensive Welsh course at the Language Centre.
Our main Canolfan Iaith (Language Centre) is Canolfan Gwên, Maes y Gwendraeth. (‘Gwên’ meaning ‘smile’). The Canolfan Iaith is a new building and independent from the main school. Pupils from years 3 to 6, who are newcomers to the Welsh language, attend the centre regularly over a period of ten weeks. Depending on demand there are additional Language Centres at Ysgol Llangadog and Ysgol Griffith Jones.
The Canolfan Iaith teachers will visit the new pupils at their school before the course commences. There will also be an opportunity for the parents to visit the Canolfan Iaith during the term.
It is a way of learning an additional language. The new target language being the medium of education. Our aim is to develop a high standard of competence in the language within a short period of time.
Research shows that pupils experiencing immersive education;
- Excel academically
- Learn a third and fourth new language more easily
- Embrace and have a better understanding of other cultures
- Have a stronger awareness of identity, culture and an understanding of society
- Gain better self esteem
- Develop better communication and social skills
Canolfan Gwên’s Language work plan has been structured carefully. The teaching is lively, kinaesthetic and engaging. Y Gymraeg is delivered across the areas of Learning and experience through new experiences, activities, tasks and games.
The focus of the activities will be on developing Welsh skills: Speaking, Reading and Writing in Welsh. Other areas of the Curriculum will also be implemented regularly throughout the teaching. Maths and Numeracy will be given regular focus. Creative activities and technology will be introduced to reinforce language and develop further skills. The Welsh language will be introduced within a friendly and caring atmosphere through fun activities and varied experiences.
Currently they attend for two or three days a week for two terms.
Children from the age of 7-11 will attend Language Centre for up to 3 days a week for a period of 10 weeks.
No more than 16
The children will be taught by experienced teachers that specialise in developing Welsh skills. The Language Centre teacher will initially visit the children at their school before starting at the Language Centre.
Carmarthenshire Education Authority will provide transport, free of charge, from your child's primary school to the Language Centre.
Children will need to bring their own packed lunch to the Language Centre. If children receive free school meals a packed lunch will be prepared for them by their own primary school.
We assess the pupils every half term and record and track their progress.
The best advice is to be positive and supportive. Encourage your child to speak Welsh with friends as much as possible. Get involved in Welsh activities in your local area.
We visit the children at their schools on a weekly or fortnightly basis and send weekly newsletters to parents and teachers. We also arrange open days for parents and teachers.
