Ysgol y Preseli facts for kids

Ysgol Bro Preseli is a school in Wales for students aged 3 to 18. It is located in the village of Crymych, in Pembrokeshire. The school's motto is "Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion", which means "Roots and Horizons" in Welsh. This motto shows the school's focus on both its history and future.

How Did Ysgol Bro Preseli Start?

Before Ysgol Bro Preseli opened, students from northern Pembrokeshire had to travel to schools in Narberth or Cardigan. This was after they passed an important test. In 1958, the local council decided to build a new school closer to home.

The school first opened in the autumn of 1958. On September 1, 1991, it officially became a bilingual school. Before this, it was known as "Ysgol Gyfun Ddwyieithog y Preseli," meaning "Preseli bilingual comprehensive school."

Who Has Been the Head of the School?

Many leaders have helped shape Ysgol Bro Preseli. D. Martin Lloyd was the headmaster for 19 years. He left in 2009 to work on a national program for headteachers.

Michael Davies, who was the deputy head, became the acting headmaster. He was then promoted to headmaster in February 2009. In October 2020, Rhonwen Morris became the new headmaster. She is the first woman to hold this position at Ysgol Bro Preseli.

How Is Welsh Used at School?

Ysgol Bro Preseli is a very Welsh-speaking school. About 43% of students come from homes where Welsh is spoken. Almost all students speak Welsh fluently.

The school is a Category 2A Bilingual school. This means that most subjects, like history or math, are taught only in Welsh. English and Welsh language classes are taught in their own languages. Science can also be taught in Welsh.

Welsh is also the main language used for school announcements and activities. Students are also encouraged to speak Welsh to each other outside of classes.

How Good Are the School's Results?

Ysgol Bro Preseli has a strong reputation for its academic standards. In 2016, the school was inspected by Estyn, which checks schools in Wales. The report called Ysgol Bro Preseli a "good school with outstanding features." This is a very high rating.

The Welsh Government also ranks schools. Ysgol Bro Preseli was the only school in Pembrokeshire to be in the top group. This shows how well students perform there.

What About Exams?

The 2016 inspection report showed good exam results.

• 60% of students achieved 5 GCSEs at grades A*-C.
• 98% of students gained at least five GCSEs at grades A*-G.

What Is the Eisteddfod?

Ysgol Bro Preseli holds an Eisteddfod every year. This is a special Welsh festival of literature, music, and performance. The event has two parts:

• Iau (Junior) for younger students.
• Hyn (Senior) for older students.

These events include a school version of the Welsh 'Cadair y Beirdd', which means 'bardic chair'. It is a competition for poets.

What Do Students Study?

The school offers a wide range of subjects.

• In years 7, 8, and 9, students study core subjects like English and Math. They also learn Humanities, Creative Arts, Technology, and French.
• In years 10 and 11, students continue with core subjects. They also choose 4 other GCSE subjects that they are interested in.
• In years 12 and 13, students can choose to study 3 or 4 AS/A Levels. These are advanced courses.

The Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification is also part of the curriculum. Year 11 students complete the Intermediate level. Students in years 12 and 13 work on the Advanced level. This qualification helps students develop important skills for life and work.

How Did the Schools Merge?

Ysgol Y Preseli joined with a nearby primary school, Ysgol Y Frenni. Together, they formed Ysgol Bro Preseli. This made it the first school in the county to teach students from age 3 to 18 through the medium of Welsh.

Who Are Some Famous Former Students?

Many talented people have attended Ysgol Bro Preseli. Here are a few:

• Joe Allen, a well-known international football player.
• Jane O'Brien, a presenter for BBC World News America. She was also a BBC North America Correspondent.
• Herbert M. Sauro, a professor who studies biology and engineering.
• Stephen Varney, an international rugby union player for Italy.
• Brian Williams, an international rugby player.
• Peredur ap Gwynedd, a musician.