Learn Welsh this September

Council staff are encouraged to learn Welsh and as an added incentive courses are fully funded 

19 August, 2021

Why not take on a new challenge this year and improve your Welsh language skills? Courses are offered at all levels so whatever your level of Welsh, whether you're a complete beginner or have learnt in the past, you can learn at a level that suits you.

Don't just take our word for it though, here's what some of our current learners had to say.

When asked why she wanted to learn Welsh Cath Shivers, Senior Finance Officer, said:

"As a born and bred Welsh lady I always felt a little disappointed that I didn’t speak the language. A few years ago I saw the posters around the Alps offering taster sessions and the opportunity to start a course and thought I would give it a try. I felt it would be a fresh challenge and a great opportunity to become one of the one million Welsh Speakers by 2050."

And in response to how she finds the course Cath said:

"To be honest from my first lesson and taster session I was hooked. My tutor Sarian who is originally from London is terrific, really enthusiastic and supportive. As somebody who was not from a Welsh speaking family she's a great role model and inspiration for those who are new to learning the language. The classes provide you with a mix of learning so you develop your vocabulary, reading  and conversational skills. There are opportunities to sit formal examinations if you like. They also run occasional Saturday morning sessions where you can meet and learn with other classes."

 Nicola Hinton, Corporate Equalities Officer, added:

"I enjoyed learning Welsh in school but hadn’t used it since and thought I had forgotten it all.  I joined a taster class in work and was surprised how quickly some of it came back.  

I then began formal lessons starting at Intermediate level and carried on through to Proficiency level.  Most of my lessons were with Nigel, a Welsh learner turned tutor.  More recently, I attended classes with ‘Tiwtor Ann’ learning about Welsh language and literature through the medium of Welsh.  Both tutors were fanatasic fun, very encouraging, and created a great atmosphere for learning Welsh – including parties and outings!  
It’s lovely getting to know other people in the same boat, all with different strengths and weaknesses and there to help one another out.  

I would recommend taking up the opportunity to learn Welsh.  We are so lucky that the Council supports us to do this.  However far we decide to take it, gaining Welsh language skills is something to be proud of, helps us to communicate with Welsh speakers and feel part of our Welsh culture.  Go for it!"

If you'd like to find out more or book a course, please visit: https://www.learnwelsh.cymru/thevale

Don't forget about the discount code: STAFF21