London Welsh School facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ysgol Gymraeg Llundain |
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| Address | |
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Westcott Crescent
, W7 1PD
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| Information | |
| Other name | London Welsh School |
| Type | Independent School |
| Motto | A Fynn a Fedr ('Who persists achieves') |
| Established | 1958 |
| Chair | Glenys Roberts |
| Head Teacher | Tracey O’Brien |
| Gender | All |
| Age | 3 to 11 |
| Enrolment | 8 (2023) |
| Capacity | 40 |
| Language | Welsh |
| Colour(s) | Red and green |
| School fees | £4,158 per annum |
| Website | http://www.ysgolgymraegllundain.co.uk |
The London Welsh School (Welsh: Ysgol Gymraeg Llundain) is a special primary school in London, England. What makes it special is that most classes and activities are taught in the Welsh language.
This school helps children aged four to 11 learn in both Welsh and English. There's also a class for younger kids, aged three and four. Plus, a fun group called Miri Mawr meets on Friday mornings for babies and toddlers.
Contents
How the School Started
Early Days of Welsh Learning
The idea for the London Welsh School began in 1955. Back then, children could attend Welsh language classes on Saturday mornings. These classes were held at the London Welsh Centre.
Founding the School in 1958
A few years later, in 1958, some fathers decided to do more. They wanted their children to have a full school experience in Welsh. So, they worked together to create the London Welsh School.
A Unique School Outside Wales
For a long time, this school was the only one outside Wales that taught mainly in Welsh. It was a very special place for Welsh families in London. Later, another Welsh school opened in Patagonia, Argentina, in 2006. This new school, called Ysgol yr Hendre, helps the Welsh community there.
Moving Homes in London
The London Welsh School has moved a few times. From 1961, it was in the Welsh Chapel in Willesden Green. But in 2000, it had to move to Stonebridge Park primary school in Brent.
A Member of Parliament, Julie Morgan, even spoke about the school. She said it was very important for families who moved to London. It helped them keep their Welsh language and culture alive.
In 2015, the school found its current home. It moved to the Hanwell Community Centre in Hanwell, Ealing. This building has a long history of education. Even the famous actor Charlie Chaplin went to a school there many years ago!
What's Been Happening Lately
Performing at Parliament
Every year, the London Welsh School gets a special invitation. The children are asked to perform at the Houses of Parliament! This happens during the St. David's Day service. They usually sing or perform for the Speaker of the House of Commons.
Famous Families at the School
Many well-known Welsh people have sent their children to this school. This shows how important it is to them. Some of these famous people include singer Cerys Matthews, TV presenter Sean Fletcher, and radio producer Sioned Wiliam.
Winning Awards
In 2019, the school won a big award! They won the Cân Actol Blwyddyn 6 ac iau at the Urdd National Eisteddfod. This is a huge Welsh festival held in Cardiff Bay. Winning this award was a proud moment for the school.
The London Welsh School is very successful. It plays a key role in keeping Welsh culture strong in London.
