Caerphilly County Borough Council Welsh in Education Strategic Plan

2014 – 2017

June 2014

1 v.20.6.14 Caerphilly County Borough Council Welsh in Education Strategic Plan 2014-2017

Introduction This Welsh in Education Strategic Plan is presented by Caerphilly County Borough Council in conjunction with the local authorities of Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire, Newport and Torfaen and the Education Achievement for South East Wales . These five local authorities and the EAS will work together in partnership to plan and deliver Welsh-medium education across the area. This plan details how Caerphilly County Borough Council and the South East Wales consortium will aim to achieve the Welsh Government’s outcomes and targets outlined in the National Welsh-medium Education Strategy at a local and regional level.

Section 1: Vision and aim for Welsh in education

Caerphilly will work regionally with the South East Wales consortium who will lead the development of Welsh standards in education to equip a bilingual Wales with a skilled bilingual workforce, supporting the Welsh Government’s vision for Welsh in Education. We will work strategically together as a region to equip schools and education providers across age ranges and linguistic sectors with the capacity and sustainability to increase standards in Welsh and promote the use of the Welsh language within families, communities and workplaces. We will aim to stimulate and provide local, accessible, sustainable, community-focused provision to meet the growing demand for Welsh-medium education.

By 2017, Caerphilly will: • Continue to proactively offer early years provision to stimulate parental demand, and then continue to meet parental demand for Welsh-medium education. • Conduct annual parental demand surveys in the autumn term. Subsequently, demand will be assessed and an action plan produced and reviewed annually . • Reduce the number of Welsh-medium primary schools with over 10% surplus places from 5 out of 11 to 3 out of 11 schools by meeting parental demand stimulated in the Early Years. • Develop Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni’r Y Gwyndy site to include sixth form provision and relocate Ysgol Gymraeg Caerffili to the site. 2 v.20.6.14 Section 2: The Action Plan This action plan sets out how the South East Wales consortium will work together to contribute to the objectives set out in the Welsh Government’s Welsh-Medium Education Strategy .

Outcome 1: More seven-year-old children being taught through the medium of Welsh

A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

1.1 Increase the South East Wales South East Wales number of seven- year-old children The number of pupils in Welsh-medium education is increasing as more places are provided in response to Continue to work collaboratively to explore options taught through the for cross-boundary provision where appropriate. medium of Welsh demand.

Across the region, 10.45% of year 2 learners are Caerphilly has a target of 18.98% of year 2 learners currently in Welsh-medium education. This proportion in 2017 has increased in four out of the five authorities over the last 3 years, and projections indicate that numbers will

continue to increase to 10.65% by 2017. Although Caerphilly continues to achieve a higher percentage of year 2 learners, increasing from 16.93% to 18.98%.

All parents receive information on Welsh-medium

education through each local authority’s Parents’ Handbook which is distributed with school application forms as well as available on the Caerphilly CBC website .

Parents are able to access information on Welsh- medium childcare and early years education provision through Family Information Services.

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v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Every local authority within the region complies with the requirements of the Learner Travel Measure (Wales) Any decisions on school transport policy changes 2008 through providing transport to Welsh-medium will have full equality and Welsh language impact schools for pupils of statutory school age in accordance assessment prior to approval. with each local authority’s individual transport policy.

Caerphilly Caerphilly Caerphilly CBC maintains 11 Welsh-medium primary Continue to proactively offer early years provision to September 2013 Year schools. Currently, this is meeting the increased stimulate parental demand, and then continue to 3 (7-8 yr olds) 352 demand. Please see table below. meet parental demand for Welsh-medium pupils education. September 2014 Year No. of Year 2 Pupils in Welsh - 3 (7-8 yr olds) 383 Year Pupils in medium Education Monitor Welsh-medium demand by conducting an pupils Year 2 annual parental demand survey and respond accordingly. No. % September 2014 all

2009 1996 266 13.3 pupils who applied for Ensure every parent seeking a Welsh-medium 2010 2085 352 16.9 a Welsh medium place school place for their child is able to access a place 2011 2002 339 16.9 were successful in within reasonable travelling distance from their 2012 2016 360 17.9 gaining a place within a home 2013 2071 401 19.4 reasonable travelling

distance from their Conduct annual parental demand surveys in the home. autumn term, to assess demand and produce annual action plan to address findings of parental Parental survey sent demand survey and Welsh-medium elements of out to Childcare Sufficiency Survey. Survey results due annually in December – see section 1.2 parents/guardians of all 0-1 year olds in November 2014 with Continue to provide transport to Welsh-medium a return date of 28 th schools in accordance with the local authority’s November 2014. transport policy and the Learner Travel Measure (Wales) 2008.

4 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

No of No of Yr 2 pupils in Yr 2 pupils in No of Yr 2 pupils in No of Yr 2 pupils in pupils pupil Welsh-medium Welsh-medium pupils Welsh-medium pupils Welsh-medium Year in Year s in Year Year Education Education in Education in Education Year Year Year 2 Year 2 2 No % 2 No % No % No %

Blaenau Gwent Monmouthshire Newport Torfaen 2011 764 36 4.71% 2011 904 38 4.20% 2011 1711 83 4.85% 2011 1079 111 10.29% 2012 691 31 4.49% 2012 867 44 5.07% 2012 1652 86 5.21% 2012 1088 86 7.90% 2013 792 43 5.43% 2013 883 53 6.00% 2013 1795 82 4.57% 2013 1055 110 10.43% 2014 731 39 5.34% 2014 899 55 6.12% 2014 1951 104 5.33% 2014 1072 132 12.31% 2015 775 53 6.84% 2015 778 49 6.30% 2015 1940 87 4.48% 2015 1083 124 11.45% 2016 782 38 4.86% 2016 810 50 6.17% 2016 1963 102 5.20% 2016 1165 124 10.64% 2017 769 39 5.07% 2017 832 52 6.25% 2017 1885 105 5.57% 2017 1132 124 10.95%

Caerphilly / Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw cluster South East Wales Region Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni cluster 2011 2002 339 16.93% 2011 4458 268 6.01% 2011 6460 607 9.40% 2012 2016 360 17.86% 2012 4298 247 5.75% 2012 6314 607 9.61% 2013 2071 401 19.36% 2013 4525 288 6.36% 2013 6596 689 10.45% 2014 2057 401 19.49% 2014 4653 330 7.09% 2014 6710 731 10.89% 2015 2166 363 16.76% 2015 4576 313 6.84% 2015 6742 676 10.03% 2016 2116 364 17.20% 2016 4720 314 6.65% 2016 6836 678 9.92% 2017 2065 392 18.98% 2017 4618 320 6.93% 2017 6683 712 10.65%

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v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

1.2 Adopt South East Wales South East Wales systematic processes for Each local authority conducts separate Childcare Sufficiency Assessments in line with Welsh Continue to work collaboratively to explore options measuring the for cross-boundary provision where appropriate. demand for Government requirements.

Welsh-medium All local authorities conduct regular parental demand childcare and Welsh-medium surveys for Welsh-medium education. statutory educational provision. Act Caerphilly Caerphilly promptly on the findings of Data for the WESP is taken at a distinct point (same The CSA Action Plan identifies the areas for further parental surveys. point for annual CSA) at 31/08/annually. CSA data and development higlighted in the CSA and aims to parental demand directs the development of new increase the number of Welsh-medium sessional childcare provision childcare places. A rolling programme of Welsh Language training is offered to the sector through The Childcare Sufficiency Assessment (CSA) the Policy Department and through our Welsh conducted in April 2011 indicated that parents/carers Language Development Officer when required. noted a shortage of Welsh-medium full day care places. It was also noted that although there were a good The Local Authority: • number of Cylchoedd Meithrin, they were not evenly Will continue to support childcare provision Menter Iaith works in spread across the county borough. As of 31/8/13 (CSA including Welsh language development across partnership with LA 2014) Data Refresh Date) shows the following the sector. officers and Mudiad • Is committed to proactively offering Welsh and Meithrin to support There are currently 40 Welsh-medium childcare English medium childcare places to Flying Start Cylchoedd Meithrin providers across the county borough comprised of: families, as well as funding Flying Start and childcare settings Childcare places in high quality non-maintained to improve Welsh • 3 Clwb Brecwast (decrease of 1) Welsh-medium settings to meet the identifed language delivery parental demand. Childcare settings will be • 4 Clwb Gwyliau (decrease of 1) across the borough • supported by a Welsh speaking Flying Start 15 CSSIW registered Cylch Meithrin (of Advisory Teacher. 6

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress which 7 are education providers, 4 will be • During the expansion of Flying Start Caerphilly Mudiad Meithrin are offering Flying Start from January 2013, and 6 will seek to increase the number of Welsh- supporting 10 also offer wrap around service) medium or bilingual childcare places to meet Cylchoedd Meithrin to • 1 unregistered part time Cylch Meithrin parental demand. During 2013-14, there were tender for the 55 Welsh medium Flying Start places framework in order to • 9 Clwb Meithrin (wrap around) with an specifically requested and taken up in increase the availability additional 1 in development Cylchoedd Meithrin enabling 100% access for of Welsh medium • 9 Clwb Carco (increase of 2) (3 additional Welsh medium provision. By 2017 we will Flying Start childcare new provision in development reflecting an continue to meet the increasing demand for places increase post August 2013) Welsh medium Flying Start childcare places, which is anticipated to rise to 75 per year. The Framework for NB: Wraparound provision is developed based on • Will continue to provide and fund quality Welsh- Flying Start Childcare parental demand medium Early Years Education for children the places and Early Years term following their 3rd birthday for those Education places will The Flying Start childcare places are publicised from parents who request it, in a variety of provision be commissioned the time that families register their child, frequently from and will continue to extend where necessary. Spring 2015 in birth with the Registrar. The Flying Start registrations • Will ensure all Welsh-medium childcare preparation for future pack is bilingual, details all provision for existing areas providers are procured appropriately using LA delivery. (pre-expansion) with contact details. commissioning processes to deliver early years education where the need is identified. Early Years team Flying Start currently is offered in 10 areas and includes • Will work closely with the Mudiad Meithrin and meetings are held Health Visiting, parenting, speech and language Menter Iaith Development Officers to maintain termly for all interventions as well as childcare. The Flying Start existing Welsh-medium childcare providers in professionals involved programme is being funded to expand into an extra 9 accordance with core Welsh Government in supporting childcare areas by 2014-15. As such additional childcare places funding commitments. settings to ensure have been procured in the non-maintained childcare • Continue to offer training and support for cohesive support. settings that are within reasonable walking distance. settings, schools and advisory teams, to ensure the transition information is used effectively. Booking a childcare place follows a process where families are asked about their preference for Welsh- Mudiad Meithrin officers will track the transition medium or English medium provision. Take up is rates from the Cylchoedd Meithrin to school settings monitored termly and compared to eligible children to and report transition data directly to Welsh find numbers required in each area. To date childcare Government. LA will track the transition of children 7 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress places have been increased in Cylch Meithrin Rhymni in funded Cylchoedd Meithrin to Welsh-medium to meet parental demand, and although slightly education settings and will use the information to decreased in Cylch Meithrin Tedi Twt primarily due to inform future development work. difficulties over the building in which the provision has been relocated, this is now stabilising. Cylch Meithrin Mudiad Meithrin officers in partnership with the Dewi Sant and Ifor Bach are both offering Flying Start Local Authority development officers will maintain childcare places. support to Cylchoedd Meithrin and other Welsh- medium childcare, in areas of identified need. LA Flying Start measures parental demand through the commissions Menter Iaith to support new initial programme registration process and then the development of provision as identified by the CSA. childcare placement process, where parents are asked for language preference of childcare place and Mudiad Meithrin officers supports the established Ti correspondence. Existing areas have met the demand a Fi groups to enable younger children and their for Welsh-medium Flying Start childcare places, but this parents/carers to meet on a regular basis to is kept under review and may require additional encourage more children and families to provision to be developed or commissioned in Wave 3 communicate through the medium of Welsh. We will of expansion, subject to a successful Welsh continue to work collaboratively with both Mudiad Government capital bid. Meithrin and Menter Iaith officers to support the childcare sector. The number of registered childcare places currently offered through the medium of Welsh is 1261. An Menter Iaith had also been commissioned (2014-16) increase of 177 places. (As of 31/8/13 (CSA 2014) Data to audit and then further support the development of Refresh). This figure includes settings stating language Welsh language resources and Welsh language used in the setting as Welsh, Welsh/English and skills across the sector. In the new contract there is Bilingual. Actual breakdown is shown in each of the emphasis on the development of the Pathway to graphs below. The figure includes After School Clubs, Bilingualism, which will identify the level of Welsh, Breakfast Clubs, Childminders, Day Nurseries, Flying support needs and develop an action plan to Start Settings, Holiday Clubs, Playgroups and Wrap improve Welsh across all settings. Around settings. 2014-15 target: 30 settings engaged in Pathway to Bilingualism; of whom 12 will achieve phase 1, 2 and 3; 12 will achieve phase 1 and 2; and 6 will achieve phase 1 only.

8 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

Welsh Language childcare The Menter Iaith officers will also offer opportunities to support Welsh Learners to access childcare and 1000 860 808 social opportunities (2014-16). The Framework for 800 688 Flying Start Childcare 600 Continue to proactively identify the demand for places and Early Years 400 Welsh-medium Flying Start childcare places and Education places will 200 65 continue to procure appropriately for maintaining be commissioned 0 delivery and for any future expansion Spring 2015 in 1 April 2015 preparation for future No. Reg Places offered Caring for Vac's delivery.

Continue to commission quality Welsh-medium Welsh / English childcare early years education places through procurement

140 119 tender processes for maintaining delivery Updated transition data 108 120 96 April 2015 has been supplied by 100 80 Mudiad Meithrin. 60 40 Increase the access to Welsh-medium childcare In addition the 20 9 places as identified by the CSA transition rates from 0 1 March 2014 non-maintained Early Years Education to No. Reg Places offered Caring for Vac's Data is attached in appendix 1. maintained Welsh Use data to establish transition rate working medium Education has Bilingual Childcare towards an overall 80% transfer from non- been calculated and 500 maintained Early Years education provision to attached in appendix 1. 382 400 345 maintained Welsh-medium education by March This shows an average 274 300 2017. transition rate of 75%. 200 We will work in partnership with Mudiad Meithrin Calculation of children 100 62 and Menter Iaith to support an increase to a accessing non- 0 minimum 50% transition rate from non-maintained maintained Early Years 1 Early Years Education provision in the Risca area to Education provision No. Reg Places offered Caring for Vac's maintained Welsh medium education by March transition to Maintained 2017. Welsh medium provision is 85.2%

8 Ti a Fi groups continue to be supported by Mudiad which meets the target. 9 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress There are 162 (as at 19/11/13) places offered through Meithrin. Transition work in the Cylchoedd Meithrin for Early years education (estimate Risca area is ongoing required was 150 places so there are sufficient places in order to meet the offered on a pay per place basis). In addition all 11 2017 target. Welsh-medium primary schools also offer EY Education for 3 year olds depending on availability of places. Caerphilly Parent Network has Number of Early Years Education places offered in non- undertaken a small maintained settings has decreased because the pilot survey across 4 schools are now offering EY Education themselves and areas in the borough to parental demand has subsequently decreased in the identify parental non-maintained settings. Due to lack of demand 3 engagement in settings made the decision not to tender to renew their decisions made registration on the Early Years Plan. regarding Welsh medium Education Parents/carers specifically noted that they use choices. Significantly it Cylchoedd Meithrin so their children can access Welsh- was discovered that medium childcare, as it is good preparation for going to 65% made their Welsh-medium primary school. 95% of those surveyed decisions when who speak, understand and read Welsh felt that their pregnant and only 1 childcare needs were being met. changed their mind Responses to the consultation for the CSA highlighted following the birth. The the following areas for improvement: local forum is • To improve choice and suitability of Welsh-medium considering how this provision in particular full day care. information will inform • To improve the location of Welsh-medium holiday our communication provision marketing strategy with • Provide additional support to increase the language families. skills of Cylchoedd Meithrin staff/workforce.

Following the recent tender process in Spring 2014 Menter Iaith was the successful tender organisation and subsequently employs 1 officer to support Welsh- 10 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress medium childcare settings, and support new developments identified, as well as a second officer to support Cylchoedd staff to improve their Welsh language skills and the quality of Welsh in the settings. Further discussions have been developed with both Mudiad Meithrin and Menter Iaith to ensure collaborative support for settings.

We have been working with a new provider (private day care provider) that wishes to offer Welsh-medium / bilingual day care, which has subsequently registered with CSSIW in 2013.

We have one new Cylchoedd Meithrin in the Crosskeys area (not yet registered with CSSIW so its childcare The LA reviewed the current childcare development Menter Iaith are places (16) are not yet included in total). Cylch Meithrin and Welsh language support for all settings and has working with Mudiad Waunfawr has had support to develop the provision but undertaken the relevant procurement process to Meithrin to support has had difficulty in establishing the voluntary secure continuity of support Welsh language across management committee in order to register with CSSIW New contract start date 1 st April 2014 the childcare sector. and in line with Mudiad Meithrin requirements.

We have appointed a Welsh language teacher to support the increase in language skills of Meithrin staff offering Early Years Education. We have also commissioned a Welsh Language Development Officer to work across all childcare provision to raise Welsh language skills.

We are currently supporting and funding the development of 3 new Clwb Carco and subsequent holiday provision through the medium of Welsh.

Demand for Welsh-medium educational provision is 11 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress measured principally in 2 ways: i. Annual parental surveys conducted each autumn which measure demand re pre school children (average return rate is 40.3%).

ii. Annual pupil projections undertaken each Continue to conduct parental surveys on an annual autumn and shared with schools. For basis.

September 2013 pupil projections have been

calculated annually to 2019 (primary) and 2023 Review capacity and projections on an annual (secondary). basis.

A combination of the above assists the LA to provide sufficient places for Welsh-medium education. Continue to stimulate parental demand in the early Results of parental years and then continue to meet parental demand survey 2013-14 CHILDREN 2012 / 2011 / 2010 / 2009 / for Welsh-medium education. BORN: 2013 2012 2011 2010 CHILDREN 2013 / OPTED FOR: % % % % BORN: 2014 ENGLISH 69.25 72.14 73.97 70.20 OPTED % MEDIUM FOR: WELSH - 25.47 22.87 21.81 24.71 ENGLISH 70.10 MEDIUM MEDIUM FAITH 3.42 4.15 2.70 2.75 WELSH - 23.78 BILINGUAL 1.24 0.42 0.76 0.15 MEDIUM UNDECIDED 0.62 0.42 0.65 1.59 FAITH 4.55 WILL SEND 0 0 0.11 0.60 BILINGUA 0.52 CHILD OUT L OF COUNTY UNDECIDE 1.05 D Flying Start childcare placement process proactively WILL 0 offers Welsh and English medium places and identifies SEND parental demand for Welsh-medium Flying Start CHILD OUT OF childcare places. Caerphilly Parent Network has also COUNTY undertaken consultation work with families leading to increases in take up of Cylch Meithrin in the Rhymney 12 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

area.

Caerphilly Parent Network has also undertaken a focus consultation with 29 parents from across the borough who attended the Parent Planet event, to establish if current information systems are working. Although there were many reasons for parents not wishing to take up Welsh-medium provision, a lack of information was not one of them. 2 of their children attended Cylch Meithrin and 1 child attended Welsh-medium school, although none of the parents were able to speak Welsh. Barriers included a lack of confidence in the parent’s own ability to speak Welsh and therefore help with homework, as well as wishing to use the local provision even if they had used Cylch Meithrin for their pre-school provision. Subsequently 8 of the 29 parents have signed up to a Welsh learners group being set up in New Tredegar.

This information has been used historically to meet the increase in demand. This has included the building of Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni (secondary) and in relation to primary 3 additional schools have opened since 2004 together with a new replacement school and 5 others have had or are planned to have increased capacities.

Increased secondary provision opened in September 2013 for Caerphilly Basin children

Meeting future demand will be more problematic as the The Authority currently has 5 out of 11 Welsh- costs involved will require Welsh Government financial medium Primary Schools with over 10% Surplus support and it is uncertain what priority will be given to Places, i.e. 45.5%. The Authority's target is that by Welsh-medium increase in demand vis a vis reduction January 2015 it reduces the number of schools with of surplus places and improved condition. over 10% Surplus Places to 3 out of 11, i.e. 27.3%

13 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Y Gwyndy – Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni opened in September 2013 as part of the 21 st century schools programme Band A.

Transition rates between Primary and Secondary Welsh-medium education remains consistently at 100%. Demand for Welsh-medium education has been increasing annually since the Authority came into existence in 1996. This trend will continue and is reflected in current pupil projections up to 2018 (primary) and 2022 (secondary). The percentage of Welsh learners is as follows:

Secondary Primary Year 2 Year 7 Welsh Welsh Welsh Welsh Year Total Total Total Total

1996 7.30% 9.19% 10.21% 6.40%

2013 12.64% 16.75% 19.36% 12.90%

2018 - 18.26% 18.26% -

2023 20.43% - - 20.13%

1.3 Ensure that proposals for 21st South East Wales South East Wales Century Schools Newport City Council include full The four authorities of Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire, Urgent work continues as a region to confirm a submitted a 21CS consideration of Newport and Torfaen all included a commitment within definite proposal from a small number of options to Strategic Outline Welsh-medium each 21st Century Schools Strategic Outline provide for pupils in the Gwynllyw cluster entering Programme Extension education. Programme to work together to secure additional Year 7 in 2016 with stakeholders and to submit a bid to WG in July 2014, Welsh-medium secondary provision within the region request for funding to Welsh Government in 2014. specifically to address 14

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress when Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw reaches its full capacity in The Welsh Government has been fully engaged WM2 provision, this 2016. with the Local Authorities concerned and has been was approved in providing advice and guidance. August 2014. A working group has been established and is meeting regularly, with WG representation present, to derive The SEWC Directors options for providing additional provision in September have supported the 2016. move towards establishing the detailed bids and moving to formal consultation in Spring 2015.

Caerphilly Caerphilly

Council considered a report in January 2012 and CCBC submitted its Strategic Outline Programme YGG Caerffili will be decided to proceed with Phase 1, Y Gwyndy, as (SOP) to the Welsh Government by the due date of 10 relocated to the Y Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni was projected to be December 2010 following approval by full Council. The Gwyndy site in nearing capacity by September 2013. CCBC also SOP made provision in Band A (2012-2015) for September 2015. additional secondary places, the relocation of 1 primary faces the prospect of refusing circa 9 Year 7 pupil school and an additional primary school. Similar admissions to YGCR otherwise. The Phase 1, Y proposals were submitted in respect of Bands B (2015- Gwyndy, has taken place in advance of the formal 2018) and C (2018-2021). commencement date of the 21st century schools programme. st The Minister announced on 13 July 2011 that the 21 century schools programme would be delayed 2 years A phased implementation plan for the £20m Y to 2014 and the authorities would be required to submit Gwyndy proposal has been drafted with potential to revised proposals by 18 November 2011. relocate YGG Caerffili and provide 6 th form Council, at its meeting on 3 November 2011, agreed facilities, as well as 700 11-16 places, from the revised bid proposals to WG by 18 November 2011 in st monies bid. respect of 21 Century Schools. The other 4 LAs in the South East Wales These included a 1 st priority scheme for £20m to 15 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress provide Y Gwyndy, an 11-16 Welsh-medium facility at consortium are developing a joint Welsh-medium the previous St. Ilan site, Caerphilly for resident secondary bid. CCBC has endorsed this students in the Caerphilly basin area. development

Proposals to increase secondary places at the St. Ilan site were approved by the Minister for Education and Skills on 5 December 2011 as part of the 21 st century schools programme Band A. Y Gwyndy – Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni opened in September 2013 for resident students in the Caerphilly basin area.

1.4 Ensure The five authorities of Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, The South East Wales authorities will continue to collaborative Monmouthshire, Newport and Torfaen all work closely work together to share the findings of parental working through together regarding secondary Welsh-medium provision. demand surveys and to ensure sufficient Welsh- consortia. Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw is the regional school for medium secondary provision. Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire, Newport and Torfaen. Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw and Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw works in partnership with Ysgol Rhymni will continue to work in partnership to Gyfun Cwm Rhymni in Caerphilly to deliver 14-19 provide a diverse range of qualifications at Key education. Stages 4 and 5. Cross-authority Welsh-medium secondary provision Develop closer partnership working across the 14-19 between Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw and Ysgol Gyfun Welsh-medium primary schools within the region, Cwm Rhymni is very strong and has been commended through the development of PLCs, building on the by Estyn (see outcomes 3 and 4). development within the Caerphilly Ysgol Gyfun The four LAs of Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire, Cwm Rhymni cluster Primary Schools. Newport, and Torfaen jointly contributed towards the Urgent work continues as a region to confirm a refurbishment and expansion of Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw definite proposal from a small number of options to to increase the capacity to 1,100 places. This is a £12.1 provide for pupils in the Gwynllyw entering Year 7 in million investment, jointly funded by all four authorities 2016 with stakeholders and to submit a request for and the Welsh Government. A task and finish group funding to Welsh Government in 2014. The Welsh continues to meet in order to develop options for Government has been fully engaged with the Local providing additional Welsh-medium secondary Authorities concerned and has been providing education by 2016 when Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw will no advice and guidance. longer be able to accommodate all pupils in the four 16

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

authorities. The South East Wales authorities will continue to The Education Achivement Service for South East work together with the Education Achievement Wales was established in September 2012, which Service to monitor the Welsh in Education Strategic includes the Welsh in Education upport Team for the Plans and to develop and monitor the associated region. A review of Welsh language advisory services Welsh in Education Grant. was undertaken in 2012 including consultation with a range of stakeholders to develop a coherent model of delivery to improve standards in Welsh. This new model of delivery was implemented across all five authorities from September 2013.

This Welsh in Education Strategic Plan has been developed by a working group from across the South East Wales Consortium.

Caerphilly Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni cluster primary schools have worked together to create numerous resources to help pupils and their families learn the Welsh language. One professional learning community focused on the development of pupil’s oral skills creating digital resources to help pupils within the class and at home. Another PLC focussed on the development of reading skills and created resources for parents of Reception children. There has also been a focus on creating opportunities for pupils to write across the curriculum in line with the Government’s Literacy Framework. In 2013-2014 the intention is to create a PLC focussing on “The Eight Reading Behaviours” with a clear focus on developing reading skills across the curriculum again in line with the government’s new framework. 17 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

1.5 Increase the There is one newly established centre for latecomers to Caerphilly will work with the South East Wales ability to take Welsh-medium primary education in Cardiff. However, authorities to develop a regional strategic approach advantage of there is no such provision currently available within to meet the individual needs of latecomers to Welsh-medium Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire, Newport or Welsh-medium education and for pupils moving into provision through Torfaen. English-medium schools from outside Wales in immersion need of additional support for Welsh second education Within Caerphilly there has been a strong commitment language, according to demand. schemes and to promotion of Welsh-medium opportunities from the centres for Early Years to encourage parents to take up Welsh- latecomers. medium provision at the earliest opportunity. This has resulted in a limited need to address latecomers Welsh immersion needs and therefore at present there are no specific services provided by the authority to primary schools for Welsh-medium latecomers, other than the general support for Welsh language learning provided by EAS. All children entering the Welsh-medium primary school provision late are treated individually and supported to access the provision fully.

Historically schools have been successful in integrating latecomers in the primary sector.

1.6 Establish a South East Wales South East Wales Welsh-medium The South East Wales Consortium has established a The regional Welsh in Education Strategic Forum Education Forum regional Welsh in Education Strategic Forum from the will meet three times a year to monitor the five and establish links autumn term 2013. This forum includes representatives Welsh in Education Strategic Plans and the regional with the Children from across the region and is consulted on the Welsh Education Grant. and Young development of the Welsh in Education Strategic Plans People’s Plan. and the Welsh Education Grant. 18

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Ensure considerations for Caerphilly Caerphilly resources and The LA meets regularly with the head teachers of the The LA will continue to support the Welsh finance for Welsh- Welsh-medium primary and secondary school to partnership group to monitor and review the medium provision discuss educational provision and identify areas of Caerphilly WESP and act as a conduit for within early years. Welsh-medium provision that require LA and information to and from the regional WESP forum. Consortium support.

The newly established Welsh partnership monitoring

group will meet on a regular basis (termly) to monitor

progress provision within all phases and action plan for

the WESP.

Grant funding is available through the Welsh LA will liaise closely with and support the work of Government Out of School Childcare grant for the RhAG, Caerphilly Parent Network and Menter Iaith with development of new childcare provision across the regular consultation meetings county.

LA will continue to work with Mudiad Meithrin and Menter Iaith to support Welsh-medium education Families First commissioning process included in childcare settings. the contracts the following requirement: The Service Provider must have in place monitoring and CYPP structure has realigned with the unified needs evaluation systems are able to record and analyse assessment and development of the LSB Single service users (children, young people and families) using Integrated Plan. Welsh-medium representation will be the full range of protected characteristics and wider considered when planning membership of any equality strands as required by Equalities and Welsh subsequent task and finish groups. The Families First language legislation, in line with CCBC's Strategic open tender process enables Welsh-medium providers Equality Plan 2012 ( www.caerphilly.gov.uk/equalities ). to work in partnership with other providers to submit a The Caerphilly WESP Forum will work with the bid. commissioners of projects to ensure families have access to support through the medium of Welsh as LA works with Mudiad Meithrin, Menter Iaith, EAS and required. Flying Start Advisory teachers to support Welsh- medium education childcare settings. 19

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

1.7 Provide South East Wales South East Wales information for Each local authority consults with each other annually The South East Wales authorities will continue to parents/carers on the school admissions processes and the content of consult each other annually on school admissions the associated information for parents’ booklets. This and information processes. enables each local authority to provide consistent information on the linguistic nature of provision within

the region.

Newport, Monmouthshire and Torfaen (on a trial basis) have implemented a bilingual online admissions process from September 2012.

Caerphilly Caerphilly

A pilot surveyof 55 CCBC meets demand in accordance with sections 9 Continue to proactively meet parental demand for parental interviews in and 14 of the Education Act 1996. Welsh-medium education as well as stimulate four areas revealed

growth for Welsh language. that 65% of the parents The LA has worked proactively to meet parental had made their preferences since 1996. During this time CCBC has Support the development of a Consortium Strategy decision on language established an innovative model to extend YG Cwm to ensure information for parents and carers is preference prior to the Rhymni provision with Y Gwyndy, 3 additional Welsh- provided in an effective and timely manner. birth of their child. A medium primary schools and increased capacity at 6 communication other primary schools. strategy will be

developed by the Information regarding Welsh-medium provision Caerphilly WESP including non-maintained Welsh-medium education forum during 2015. settings, is published in the Authority's Starting School Booklet which is issued to parents when they apply for admission into Nursery, Reception and Secondary Schools. This information is also available online.

20

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress All in-county admission applications have been met in- county historically and so out-county provision has not been necessary.

The LA has only Welsh-medium and English Medium schools with provision for Welsh in both sectors.

The LA Family Information Service offers information for all families across a range of provision including childcare in both Welsh and English. FIS has Welsh speaking staff and so the FIS has the ability to answer phone calls in Welsh enabling families to speak the language of their choice. All information can be given in Welsh or English and is available online in a comprehensive website.

Early Years Education information is given to families with 0 – 1 year olds to enable parents to discuss and consider choices of Welsh language and non- maintained provision at the earliest time.

Flying Start records family language preference on contact with the family and registration into the programme. This is reiterated in the Flying Start Childcare placement process to ensure families have the information in Welsh if they prefer and that families are able to access Welsh-medium or English medium provision according to their preference. Flying Start has sufficient Welsh-medium provision currently to meet demand but will keep this under review as the expansion is implemented. Flying Start gives information in Welsh and English to ensure families are informed and can complete the forms in their preferred 21 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress language.

Subject to statutory processes, the admission arrangements between Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and Y Gwyndy will be carefully managed to ensure that places are restricted to in-catchment/county pupils otherwise Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni will continue to exceed capacity even with the establishment of the expanded secondary provision at Y Gwyndy – Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni, which opened in September 2013.

There are a small number of out-county children who attend CCBC schools with the possibility that this will increase for secondary in the near future given the lack of spaces in the ‘South East’ area.

The LA has only Welsh-medium and English medium schools with provision for Welsh in both sectors.

22 v.20.6.14 Outcome 2: More learners continuing to improve their language skills on transfer from primary school to secondary school See also Appendices 3/4

A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

2.1 Increase the In September 2013, 6.23% of Year 9 Ensure every child seeking to Caerphilly has one of the highest rates of continuity of percentage of pupils in south east Wales were in progress from Welsh-medium assessment at Welsh First Language from KS2 to KS3. Year 9 learners Welsh-medium secondary schools. primary education to Welsh- who are assessed medium secondary education is Comparison of reduction in Assessment of Welsh Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw in Torfaen is in Welsh (First able to access a place. First Language from KS2 to KS3 the feeder Welsh-medium secondary Language) school for pupils from Torfaen, Newport, Monmouthshire, and Blaenau Urgent work continues as a Population Gwent. In 2013, 3.55% of Year 9 region to confirm a definite 2012 Speaking KS3-KS2 pupils across the four authorities were proposal from a small number of Welsh attending Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw. options to provide for pupils in the Penybont -ar -Ogwr 9.70% -42.02% Gwynllyw cluster entering Year 7 100% of pupils are assessed through Castell Nedd a Phort Talbot 15.30% -37.25% the medium of Welsh. in 2016 with stakeholders and to submit a request for funding to Ynys Mon 57.20% -34.67% In 2013, 11% of Year 9 pupils in Welsh Government in 2014. The Sir y Fflint 13.20% -27.71% Caerphilly were attending Welsh- Welsh Government has been fully Sir Gaerfyrddin 43.90% -27.16% medium secondary education at Ysgol engaged with the Local Gyfun Cwm Rhymni, and 100% are Authorities concerned and has Sir Benfro 19.20% -27.01% assessed through the medium of been providing advice and Conwy 27.40% -22.64% Welsh. This is an increase against guidance. Gwynedd 65.40% -16.83% 9.58% in 2013. -16.73% Ceredigion 47.30% The number of Year 9 pupils in Welsh- Powys 18.60% -14.08% medium Education is increasing across Maintain 100% teacher the region as the number of places assessment through the medium Bro Morgannwg 10.80% -11.76% available in primary schools expands. of Welsh in Year 9 at Ysgol Gyfun Sir Dinbych 24.60% -5.05% Gwynllyw and Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Caerffili 11.20% -4.08% Caerphilly opened a further 900 place Rhymni. -1.10% provision Y Gwyndy, on the former St Abertawe 11.40% Ilan site in September 2013. Caerdydd 11.10% -0.93%

23

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

No of Yr 9 pupils in No of Yr 9 pupils in No of Yr 9 pupils in No of Yr 9 pupils in pupils Welsh- pupils Welsh-medium pupils Welsh-medium pupils Welsh-medium Year in Year Year medium Year in Education in Education in Education Year Education Year Year 9 Year 9 9 No % No % No % 9 No %

Blaenau Gwent Monmouthshire Newport Torfaen 2011 760 30 3.95% 2011 919 21 2.29% 2011 1792 46 2.57% 2011 1272 89 4.99% 2012 722 41 5.68% 2012 814 31 3.81% 2012 1659 43 2.59% 2012 1219 70 4.15% 2013 689 28 4.06% 2013 785 25 3.18% 2013 1708 44 2.58% 2013 1094 55 7.00% 2014 647 28 4.33% 2014 745 20 2.68% 2014 1603 34 2.12% 2014 1082 53 5.74% 2015 612 33 5.39% 2015 842 38 4.51% 2015 1632 60 3.68% 2015 1074 67 4.90% 2016 689 25 3.63% 2016 903 32 3.54% 2016 1652 54 3.27% 2016 1043 73 5.34% 2017 771 27 3.50% 2017 883 36 4.08% 2017 1670 53 3.17% 2017 1100 73 6.10%

Caerphilly / Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw cluster South East Wales Region Rhymni cluster 2011 2158 238 11.03% 2011 4743 186 3.92% 2011 6901 424 6.14% 2012 2052 237 11.55% 2012 4414 185 4.19% 2012 6466 422 6.53% 2013 2031 241 11.87% 2013 4296 152 3.54% 2013 6307 393 6.23% 2014 1958 216 11.03% 2014 4096 135 3.30% 2014 6035 351 5.82% 2015 1933 252 13.04% 2015 4117 183 4.44% 2015 6093 450 7.39% 2016 1991 245 12.31% 2016 3384 152 4.49% 2016 6278 429 6.83% 2017 2064 326 15.79% 2017 3541 153 4.32% 2017 6488 515 7.94%

24

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress 2.2 Develop more Progression rates from Mudiad Meithrin early years Develop an action plan to increase effective transfer settings to Welsh-medium schools fluctuate across the transfer rates from Mudiad Meithrin between the region and were generally lower in 2012 than 2011, but settings to Welsh-medium primary schools funded non- higher than 2010. to at least 80% per setting by 2017. maintained provision to Sept 2010 Sept 2011 Sept 2012 Identify the barriers to transition from non- maintained school maintained settings to Welsh Medium provision, between schools on an individual setting basis and Key Stage 2 and 3 Blaenau Gwent 33% 64% 41% develop an action plan to address the and Key Stage 3 Caerphilly 81% 80% 74% barriers, recognising this is of particular and 4. Monmouthshire 73% 77% 77% importance in Parc Waunfawr and Dewi Newport 61% 65% 51% Sant. Aim to increase the transition rate to Torfaen 74% 79% 78% a minimum 50% from the registered Early Years education non-maintained provision South East Wales 62% 75% 69% in the Risca area to maintained Welsh medium education.

Transition rates between Welsh-medium primary and Maintain the high transfer rates between secondary schools are high across the South East Welsh-medium primary schools and Wales. Transition rates have been maintained at 100% Welsh-medium secondary schools. in Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly over the last two years, and have increased in Newport and Torfaen.

Sept 2011 Sept 2012 Sept 2013

Blaenau Gwent 100% 100% 100%

Caerphilly 98.0% 100% 100%

Monmouthshire 90.6% 78.6% 95.65%

Newport 97.5% 85.3% 96.6% Torfaen 98.2% 95.5% 99.5% South East Wales 95.8% 96.2% 99.1%

25

v.20.6.14

Caerphilly Caerphilly

Local Authority officers will work with all Overall the rates of progression are good across all key Data supplied in Appendix 1a development officers (Mudiad Meithrin and stages within statutory education. However, two areas Menter Iaith) and admissions team to in early years have been identified for future establish suitable data collection and improvement, namely the Risca area and Bedwas valley sharing processes for information relating area, where there is currently no local Welsh-medium to rates of progression from the funded primary for children to progress on to. This is supported Early Years Education places in by the data provided in Appendix 1. Cylchoedd to statutory education.

Data supplied by Mudiad Meithrin reflects an 80% transfer rate from Cylchoedd Meithrin to Welsh-medium Mudiad Meithrin will supply data directly to Data supplied has been Primary School. Welsh Government who will supply the included in Appendix 1 data to LA for the strategic planning. 100% children accessing existing Flying Start Welsh- medium childcare transfer to Welsh-medium Primary The local authority will continue to support School. the effective transition from KS2 to KS3 by promoting the transition curriculum as an Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni has created a very effective example of good practice across the cluster group, which collaborates to ensure that the region. pupils transferring from year 6 to Cwm Rhymni are fully prepared for the transition.From September 2013 the The NEETS strategy cluster jointly introduced a Closing the Gap Strategy. The Local Authority will continue to continues to make a This strategy is aimed at enabling the whole cluster to support the Welsh-medium NEETS significant contribution to identify those pupils in need of specific early strategy. raising standards at 14-16. intervention. All NEETs candidates The Local authority will continue to support achieved the Level 1 A major factor in ensuring nearly 100% transition from the Welsh-medium pastoral strategy to Threshold and were enrolled KS2 to KS3 is the transition curriculum. The Welsh ensure that all pupils in KS3 receive in a college course or Baccalaureate is a core subject in Cwm Rhymni and to suitable and relevant information and employment when leaving support this, teachers from Cwm Rhymni teach year 6 advice as they prepare for transition to school at the end of Year 11 pupils every week. Through the Welsh Baccalaureate KS4. July 2014. curriculum we develop Literacy and Numeracy and a greater understanding of Welsh language secondary

26 v.20.6.14 education. The Transition Curriculum (Welsh Welsh-medium primary Head teachers Baccalaureate) has continued with more emphasis and Foundation phase staff will continue to being placed on the development of literacy skills. The promote Welsh-medium primary education teacher now teaching the curriculum are mainly Welsh by meeting prospective parents of children first language specialists. attending Cylchoedd Meithrin to provide literature and information outlining the Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni has expanded its 14-19 quality of the Welsh-medium education learning pathways strategy to encompass the 11-14 provision available. learners. With the basic principle that if you prepare the pupils for the 14-19 curriculum by effectively

implementing the 11-14 curriculum you will ensure a more effective 14-19 Learning pathway. Appraising and developing the 11-19 curriculum is a major element of Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni will appraise Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni’s school development plan and develop the 11-19 curriculum in line for 2013-2014. In line with local and national with the school’s development plan. developments, it has been identified that there is a need to rationalise the curriculum to ensure that it is relevant to the needs of the pupils and responds to national strategies.

The Welsh Baccalaureate is a core subject in KS3 at Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni. This encourages pupils to be more aware of Wales and its position within Europe and

the rest of the world. This enables the development of a greater understanding of the opportunities available to pupils by following 14-19 Welsh-medium courses.

Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni has implemented a highly

effective KS3 basic skills strategy to improve pupils’ basic skills in literacy and numeracy. This combined with the school’s development of a vocational curriculum has promoted high expectations amongst this group of

students.

Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni identifies those pupils in year As part of this specifically 27 v.20.6.14 9 who are in danger of becoming NEETS. These pupils designed curriculum, short then following a specifically designed curriculum which accredited Welsh-medium appeals to them and aims to ensure that they do not courses in Motor Vehicle

become NEETS. The NEETS strategy continues to be Studies are delivered to both an effective tool in enhancing pupils’ expectations. The pupils from Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Youth mentor works with the NEETS group and enables Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni will continue to Rhymni and Gwynllyw at the young people to express their concerns effectively. implement the NEETS strategy aiming to Rhymney campus of Coleg y achieve that no young person becomes Cymoedd. A full Welsh- Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni has a strategy for Welsh- NEET on leaving Cwm Rhymni. medium IMI Level 1 course medium pastoral support which enables each child to in Motor Vehicle Studies has access appropriate support when required. This support also been delivered to pupils is essential in ensuring that every child is fully aware of from Ysgol Gyfun Cwm the available 14-16 Welsh-medium provision, thus Rhymni.This demonstrates ensuring that approaching 100% of KS3 pupils transfer the benefits of the close to KS4. partnership working between college and schools. 2.3 Promote a All schools are either designated Welsh-medium schools or English–medium schools where Welsh is higher proportion taught as a second language. With the exception of English and English Literature in Key Stages 2, 3, of Welsh-medium 4 and 5, all subjects in all phases and stages in every Welsh-medium school are taught through the provision within medium of Welsh. bilingual schools.

28

v.20.6.14 Outcome 3: More learners aged 14-16 studying for qualifications through the medium of Welsh Outcome 4: More learners aged 16-19 studying subjects through the medium of Welsh in schools, colleges and work- based learning

A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

3.1 Increase the 100% of pupils in Year 11 at Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw The South East Wales consortium will: The 2014-2015 Timetable for PLC’s percentage of and Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni are studying for 5 or • continue to improve the quality of across the 7 schools within the learners aged 14- more qualifications through the medium of Welsh. the provision available to students. family has been published. The 16 studying for This high proportion is to be commended. timetable is split into 3 two week • continue to further develop qualifications sessions of meetings (See attached There will be continued partnership working professional learning communities through the timetable). between Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw and Ysgol Gyfun to ensure sustained high standards medium of Welsh Cwm Rhymni. Estyn praised increased vocational across the curriculum. qualifications through partnership working in its The partnership is promoting the • inspection of the school in 2008: “ The school has continue to be at the forefront of new WJEC Welsh medium successfully taken into account national priorities. strategies for developing 14-16 vocational courses in; In-particular, the school is currently working very learning pathways through • Busnes (Retail) collaboration at all levels and with closely with Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni to meet • Construction all stakeholders in the development WAG’s 14-19 Learning Pathways agenda. Effective • Hospitaity links have been made with providers of education of Welsh-medium education. • Travel and training in the community .” • further develop the pioneering cross Pupil numbers following vocational border/consortium partnership in Partnership working between Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw courses continues to be strong (See order to further expand the number and Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni was Case Study 1 in attached report on student numbers) of courses available to the students. Estyn’s 2008 report on good practice (Case study 2 is the co-operative work with a local school). This can only be achieved if all stakeholders in the RNDP (ANDP) The NEETS strategy continues to PLCs have been established for the last three recognise the need to prioritise make a significant contribution to years, including literacy PLCs in both Ysgol Gyfun Welsh-medium 14-16 education. raising standards at 14-16. All Neets Cwm Rhymni and Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw, and joint Welsh-medium 14-16 education candidates achieved the Level 1 PLCs in all core subjects and each year three non- needs to be considered as part of Threshold and were enrolled in a core subjects in additional to the senior leadership future consortia and LAN college course or employment when team between the two schools and another five discussions and inform future leaving school at the end of Year 11 schools within the same Welsh-medium family of educational strategies. July 2014. schools.

29

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Professional Learning Communities have continued Partnership working with Coleg y to thrive through the family of schools. 34 days of Cymoedd has enabled Ysgol Gyfun collaboration across the five schools was organised Cwm Rhymni and Gwynllyw to offer during 2012-2013. accredited vocational opportunities within the field of Motor Vehicle Two new schools have joined our family and this Studies at the Rhymney campus has strengthend the collaborative approach of our workshops. family.

27 days of collaborative meeting have been arranged and a further 10 days of training for non specialist teachers of English and Mathematics ill take place during 2013-2014.

Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni have attempted to collaborate with Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg and Preseli. There is a will to do so but as yet we have not succeeded in organising the literacy and leadership meetings as desired.

Cwm Rhymni NEETS strategy is proving to be very popular with the pupils and successful in encouraging the pupils to have an interest in their own development and to have high expectations for the future. We have witnessed additional benefits from improved expectations from those pupils who would normally be working with the NEETS PUPILS.

3.2 / 4.1 Currently, the provision for Welsh-medium post-14 Ensure provision is maintained through The 14-19 Partnership work has Ensuring that options complies with the Learning and Skills the appropriate funding mechanisms introduced some new WJEC provision for 14-16 Measure (Wales) 2009 and is sustained through and continued partnership working. Level1/2 vocational courses year old learners specific grants (14-16, 16-19, grant for bilingual supported by the RNDP and a Welsh 30

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress complies with the teaching 14-19) and through partnership working medium 14-16 grant. Learning and between Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw and Ysgol Gyfun Ensure sufficient Welsh-medium Skills Measure Cwm Rhymni. secondary places through regional Both schools continue to comply with (Wales) 2009 working to plan school places. the Learning and Skills Measure at Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and Ysgol Gyfun The Strategic Plan for developing 14-16 and Post 16. The Welsh Gwynllyw works in close collaboration to ensure that Welsh-medium 14-19 Learning medium 14-16 continues to excel on they are able to offer a wide range of suitable Pathways 2013-2017 has been the minimum expectation at 14-16 in courses through the medium of Welsh. Continued finialised in 2013, but is reviewed order that they can continue to offer future collaboration across South East Wales will be annually to reflect changes in education a sustainable Welsh medium 14-19 required in order that the Welsh-medium provision priorities. This plan reflects the aims of Learning Pathway (i.e. they must at 14-16 can be sustained. Partneriaeth 6 in achieving our long- offer 30 courses at 14-16 in order term vision in line with the “Review of tahat there is a Welsh medium This Partnership (‘Partneriaeth 6’) is an effective Qualifications for 14-19 year olds in pathway towards the 30 post 16 system of co-operation between two centres that Wales”. This could lead the south East Welsh medium courses). specialise in teaching through the medium of Welsh. Wales regional development plan for Currently, only Partneriaeth 6 within South East Welsh-medium 14-19 Learning The Headteacher of Ysgol Gyfun Wales has the ability and specialism necessary to Pathways 2013-2016. Cwm Rhymni and the Deputy fulfil the aims of the Welsh-medium Education Build on effective partnership with other Headteacher of Ysgol Gyfun Strategy. Welsh-medium schools and external Gwynllyw are both members of the The Strategic Plan for developing Welsh-medium educational agencies within our South South East Wales CYDAG which 14-19 Learning Pathways 2013-2017 was East Consortium region and across organises collaboration of Welsh introduced in January 2013. The plan is monitored South Wales. medium establishments across on a regular basis by the Joint Governors 14-19 South Wales. In particular the joint Learning Pathways sub-committee. The plan will be Create partnerships with other leading INSET day with WJEC for the new updated in January 2104. We continue to be lead Welsh-medium schools across Wales GCSE courses to be implemented members of the South East wales 14-19 forum and to share outstanding practice and to from September 2015. the South East Wales CYDAG. further enable Cwm Rhymni. Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni is a Lead Practitioner

School working in collaboration with Caerleon Comprehensive school. Strengthen Partneriaeth 6 to respond effectively to the changes in national There is more detail in the Partneriaeth 6 Strategic learning Pathways strategies and other action plan is attached in appendix 5. key national strategies. 31

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

Partneriaeth 6 will become a broader partnership across the curriculum and key stages. These developments are on going and are a long term strategy to coincide with the development of our new site in Caerphilly (Y Gwyndy).

3.3 Increase the Transition rates from Year 11 to Year 12 remain This high transition rate and number of percentage of high in 2013: courses offered through the medium of Transition rates from Year 11 to learners aged 16- • Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni: 73.2% Welsh will be maintained through Year 12 remain high in 2014: 19 who study continued partnership. • Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw: 67% • Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni: subjects through 70.08% the medium of Continue to promote 14-19 Learning • Welsh in schools Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw: 59% The proportion of students continuing their key pathways through the medium of Welsh

stage 5 education through the medium of Welsh has as a regional partnership and share the increased over recent years. For example, in 2006 long-term vision for Welsh-medium 14- Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni has just 56% of students continued at Ysgol Gyfun 19 learning pathways. successfully implemented a new Gwynllyw compared with 70% in 2012. The Year 12 Transition Vocational increased choise of courses and new buildings at Pathway. the school have been influential factors. The vision for the for Welsh-medium The number of students remaining to study in year 14-19 learning pathways is as follows; The Year 12 Transition Pathway is a 12 has remained constant between 2012 and 2013, • Continue to develop the package of courses that are although the proportion has declined slightly. The Partnership effectively across all available to our Year 12 students number of students remaining to study at key stage Welsh-medium stakeholders from September 2014. The aim is to 5 at both schools is high, especially given the and to be prominent in leading enable well motivated and ambitious geographical nature of the area. Research over the education initiatives locally and students to continue their studies years has shown that very few students who leave nationally. through the medium of Welsh. It is suitable for those students who to study elsewhere are following courses offered • Deliver on our strategy to would wish to follow Level 3 courses within the schools. Fewer students from provide excellent Welsh- but, unfortunately, have not yet Monmouthshire remain due to the higher travel medium education of the achieved a suitable level of costs. highest possible standard with achievement to enable them to study 32

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Subjects pursued elsewhere by Ysgol Gyfun each pupil having the Level 3 courses in year 12. Gwynllyw students have included music and art. It is opportunity to achieve their true anticipated that the new building at Ysgol Gyfun potential. It is expected that those students Gwynllyw opened in 2012 with specialist art and • Ensure that all stakeholders in who choose to follow the Year 12 music facilities will attract more students to study Welsh-medium education Transition Pathway will wish to these courses at KS5. continue their studies at Cwm understand and agree with this 100% of pupils in years 12 and 13 at Ysgol Gyfun Rhymni at the end of year 12 by fundamental vision. Gwynllyw and Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni study 2 or starting Level 3 courses in more subjects through the medium of Welsh. September 2015. Continue developing the range of At Key Stage 4, 30 academic and vocational vocational courses including the Vocational Studies will be at the core courses are offered with a wide range of level 2 introduction of the QCF CCLD for those of the course with developing further vocational courses. At Key Stage 5, 30 academic students wishing to train for a career in understanding of a variety of fields of and vocational courses are offered with a wide Early Years or wider range ofcare Business being central to the range of level 3 vocational courses. The number of professions requiring this as a baseline curriculum. courses offered at both schools has increased over qualification. Cwm Rhymni will begin the years. delivering this childcare qualification All Year 12 Transitional Pathway The 14-19 Regional Welsh-medium Forum provides from September 2014. students continue to develop their opportunities for practitioners to network and share literacy and numeracy skills by good practice and information. following a specific core subject The proportion of learners age 16-19 studying curriculum (i.e. either re sitting through the medium of Welsh is increasing as GCSE’s or reinforcing skills through demand for Welsh-medium education increases. vocationally linked units). Retention in Years 12 and 13 is increasing year on year. Partneriaeth 6 has successfully

implement the new QCF CCLD course with 7 students at Cwm Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni has introduced a suitable curriculum for 16-19 pupils with additional learning rhymni and 6 at Gwynllyw.

need. They combine NVQ (Classroom Assistants or Business Administration) and core subjects as well Cwm Rhymni continues to offer a Post 16 NVQ Business as tracking pupils re (Poverty Deprivation Grant) PDG funding to establish the link between provision Administration course for a student who has specific learning needs. 33 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress and outcomes. In September 2014 they will be introducing a 16-19 preparation for working life Post 16 courses for students with Cwm Rhymni has introduced 16-19 curriculum to our basic needs unit. They have special educational needs have been preparation for working life sustained the growth in our sixth form with 154 developed at level 1 with the aim of curriculum within the schools basic students in year 12, 109 in year 13 and 11 in year implementing an entry level course in needs unit. At present there is only 1 14. September 2014. NVQs continue to run candidate with the curriculum since their implementation in 2013. specifically designed to his personal Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni are continuing to needs. Any decisions on school transport promote further understanding of the need develop policy changes will have full equality literacy skills amongst our post 16 students and Cwm Rhymni continue to have a and Welsh language impact very good working relationship with particularly amongst our vocational students. assessment prior to approval. Coleg y Cymoedd (Ystrad Mynach). The Welsh Language Champion at The South East Wales vocational training day Further develop collaborative the college arranges taster days at (15/11/13) at Cwm Rhymni focused on developing partnership working between Ysgol the college and liaises regularly with literacy across the post 16 vocational curriculum. Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and Coleg y those students most likely to choose Cymoedd. Discussions continue with Ystrad Mynach college a Post 16 vocational course at the college. who have now become a part of Coleg y Cymoedd, During 2013-14 the college target was

and are keen to work in partnership delivering 24 learners to study through the Coleg y Cymoedd continues to Welsh-medium vocational introductory and medium of Welsh; 12 learners to be increase the number of students who enhanced options for NVQs in collaboration with assessed through the medium of study at least one module through Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni. Welsh. the medium of Welsh. There is a From september 2013 we have introduced a post particular focus on the Yr Iaith ar 16 NVQ curriculum for some of our special needs Waith module which is a Welsh- pupils. They are aiming to achieve a level 2 medium Customer Care qualification qualification over a two year period. accredited by the WJEC. In 2012-13, Coleg y Cymoedd in the Caerphillly Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni will be introducing a post area, had 87 learners enrolled on the 16 entry Level 3 curriculum in September 2014 for Welsh medium short course unit, students within our Complex Needs Unit. We will and 78 attained. This increased in therefore be developing a Post 16 Complex Needs 2013-14 to 149 enrolled of which 140 achieved the qualification. 34 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Unit. Coleg y Cymoedd in the Caerphilly area has exceeded its target set by Welsh Government of increasing the number of Welsh-medium module options available to learners to 8 by 2013-14(15 module options were offered in 2013-14).

85 students started full time courses at Coleg y Cymoedd in September 2013 after leaving Welsh medium education (majority of whom attended Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni) to study vocational qualifications. Detailed analysis was carried out to ascertain which courses they chose to study, the linguistic nature and whether there were potential matches with suitably qualified Welsh-speaking staff.

3.4 Work through 14-19 Networks provide annual funding to support A regional budget will be provided by The Headteacher of Ysgol Gyfun 14-19 Networks collaborative arrangements for teaching subjects Partneriaeth 6 to sustain and improve Cwm Rhymni and the Deputy and 14-19 through the medium of Welsh. Welsh-medium provision. Headteacher of Ysgol Gyfun Regional Forums The development of Welsh-medium 14-19 provision Continue to hold annual discussions Gwynllyw are both members of the to sustain and is included within each authority’s 16-18 between the Welsh-medium secondary South East Wales 14-19 Learning improve Welsh- Transformation Strategy (2010). schools and the further education Pathways Forum. The Forum medium provision Discussions are held annually between the Welsh- sector to explore options for delivering promotes cross regional Welsh

medium secondary schools and the further courses through the medium of Welsh. medium collaboration across schools education sector to explore options for delivering and colleges courses through the medium of Welsh. Through belonging to the Forum, 35

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress the Coleg y Cymoedd has strengthened its links with Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni, e.g. this directly lead to developing an increasing programme of Welsh medium taster and enrichment courses. 3.5 Gather, Through the South East Wales Forum, meetings are Partneriaeth 6 will continue to work Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni analyse and use held regularly, training sessions for staff are together to plan for post-16 Welsh- introduced a post 16 entry Level 3 data for 14-19 arranged, pupils work together and network, priority medium provision. curriculum in September 2014 for Welsh-medium areas to be developed are identified e.g. Further collaboration will be developed students within their Complex Needs provision. Plan for psychology. through the work of the South East Unit. We will therefore be developing post-16 Welsh- There is collaboration between Ysgol Gyfun Wales Learning Pathways 14-19 a Post 16 Complex Needs Unit. medium provision Gwynllyw and Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and the Forum. within partnerships schools have worked collaboratively with Coleg y Collaboration with Coleg y Cymoedd Cymoedd who provide work-based training on car Extending the provision offered through (Rhymney campus) has continued mechanics at the College’s Rhymney’s campus. continued collaborative working with with the car mechanics course Coleg y Cymoedd is keen to develop further Coleg y Cymoedd (specifically with the through the medium of Welsh. Both collaborations with Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and Ystrad Mynach and Rhymney Cwm Rhymni and Gwynllyw send delivers both Welsh-medium taster courses,as well campuses) pupils in Year 10 on a weekly basis as enrichment courses to pupils from the school. to the college for 10 week accredited Subjects include French, Catering and Motor Close collaboration with work place courses. The College also delivers a Vehicle Studies and the collaborative partnership is training providers will continue and Welsh-medium l IMI Level 1 course keen to develop this further by developing training further developments are expected the in Motor Vehicle Studies to Years 10 on Customer Care. future in order that Welsh-medium and 11 Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni Practitioners at Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw and Ysgol training in other vocational fields can pupils. Gyfun Cwm Rhymni attend both Welsh-medium and take place. English-medium Learning Partnership meetings to have a full picture of the extent of 14-19 Welsh- Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni continues to medium provision in the region. contribute to the local and national discussion on the development of a Welsh-medium 14-19 Learning Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and Ysgol Gyfun Pathway Strategy Gwynllyw have formed a joint governors’ 14-19 sub 36

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress committee. This joint sub committee monitors and evaluates the performance of Partneriaeth 6.

Partneriaeth 6 is an effective system of collaboration between two centres that specialise in teaching through the medium of Welsh. Within South East Wales it is only Partneriaeth 6 that has the ability and specialism necessary to fulfil the aims of the Welsh-medium Education Strategy.

Partneriaeth 6 collaborates with work place training providers in developing training in the work place through the medium of Welsh. The facilitator for the South East Wales Forum Learning Pathways 14-19 is a member of the Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni Senior Management Team. Since his introduction the focus of the forum has changed to organising a series of highly successful The annual CYDAG/WJEC INSET educational conferences. day (13/02/15) will include a WJEC vocational training day at Ysgol The annual CYDAG/WJEC INSET day (15/11/13) Gyfun Cwm Rhymni to enable all included a vocational training day at Ysgol Gyfun Welsh medium schools across South Cwm Rhymni based on the the forums focus Wales to be fully advised about what groups. This day focused on developing literacy the WJEC can offer. Teachers from skills. Partneriaeth 6 will be contributing towards the training as they are the lead practitioners in this field. The joint sub-committee continues to meet to monitor, appraise and plan future developments in the 14-19 Welsh-medium Learning Pathways The joint sub-committee continues to strategy. meet with the most recent meeting being held on 30/09/14. The There are ongoing discussions on how to develop Partnership results and student

37 v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress further partnership working with staff from Coleg y numbers were appraised. The next Cymoedd’s Ystrad Mynach campus.The Bilingual meeting will be held in January Champion is a member of the South East Wales 2015. Forum Learning Pathways 14-19 and meets the head teacher and facilitator regularly.

Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni is represented on the 14- 19 executive board led by the EAS.

Plans for the development of a 14-19 curriculum in Y Gwyndy are in their infancy, but collaboration across Partneriaeth 6 is at the heart of these strategies.

Outcome 5: More learners with higher skills in Welsh

A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress 5.1 Improve All Welsh-medium schools are responding to the The Local Authorities working with the Impact reports are provided to Local provision to Literacy Framework working with NSP partners and EAS will continue to monitor and Authorities on a termly basis. address literacy are implementing the Framework across all aspect of evaluate standards in Welsh and the in Welsh the school curriculum including Welsh. The quality of provision, through analysis The EAS has developed a Welsh Framework features in all School Improvement Plans. of Estyn inspection reports, data Literacy Tracker, as for English and Literacy mapping has been undertaken across all analysis, school target setting and Maths, for Numeracy, to support Welsh-medium schools and by Welsh departments in information received from EAS schools in tracking pupil progress with English-medium secondary schools. System Leader for Welsh and the the National Literacy framework. Welsh in Education Support Team Inspections completed and Cwm Rhymni highlighted leader. There is now an active EAS as outstanding. Report available on request Excellence in Teaching Programme The EAS will continue to develop a for the Welsh-medium sector – Anelu There are successful transition initiatives at both Ysgol consortium Strategy for Literacy for at Ragoriaeth. Literacy is a key 38

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw Welsh-medium provision that will component of this programme. driving up standards in Literacy with target setting and reflect the National Strategy for pupil tracking central to the process. The Transition Literacy and to ensure parity of Preparations for the new Welsh GCSE curriculum continues to be an effective strategy provision. are being facilitated by the EAS ensuring good development of literacy and a deeper through collaboration with the CSC understanding of the environment within a secondary The work of the EAS Welsh in consortia and design of school-to- school. Education Team in Welsh-medium school arrangements. Regular meetings of the SE Wales Welsh-medium schools is to be developed to reflect schools’ Head teacher forum ensure the sharing of the growing needs of the Welsh- Staff language development needs good practice on whole-school literacy strategies and medium sector. The EAS Monitoring, have been discussed with all HTs and other initiatives. challenge, support and Intervention the Sabbatical Scheme promoted. visits will focus on standards in The Welsh in Education team has Across secondary schools, Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw and literacy to ensure learners are making established links with the Sabbatical Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni are working in partnership good progress. team at Cardiff University and as part of a cross-region network with Ysgol Gyfun informed them of needs. Llangynwyd, Ysgol Gyfun Y Cymmer and Ysgol Gyfun The work in identifying good practice Rhydywaun, Ysgol Bro Edern and Ysgol Bryn Tawe. during 2013-14 will provide a School profiles in place for all priority Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) are held foundation for future school-to-school primary schools. to improve the language skills of Welsh-medium support. The Welsh in Education practitioners and learners across the curriculum. PLCs Support Team will continue to provide comprise the Core subjects and a range of Foundation and further develop language and subjects which change each year. methodology training to teachers and Monitoring of the National Reading teaching assistants within the Welsh- medium sector and promote the tests was undertaken in a sample of The EAS Welsh in Education Support Team, on behalf Sabbatical Scheme. schools in May 2014. of Local Authorities, provides support and challenge to

all schools (Welsh and English-medium) through regular Welsh in Education Officer visits. All schools are profiled in terms of their strengths and areas for development. Good practice is identified and shared by the Welsh in Education Team. Welsh-medium Foundation Phase settings receive advisory support from the EAS Early Years Advisory team (both

39

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress primary schools and non-maintained Early Years Education settings).

The EAS Welsh in Education Support Team monitors the administration and the marking of the National Reading Tests on behalf of Local Authorities. Feedback is provided to schools. Welsh in Education Officers provide support with developing strategies to develop pupil skills in relation to the type of questions encountered within the reading tests.

Both Welsh-medium primary clusters have worked at developing Literacy on a PLC basis, working towards improving literacy. The Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni cluster worked on developing writing strategies during 2012-13 and the Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw cluster on developing reading strategies. This work continues with schools across the region, supported by EAS Officers, collaboratively looking at the ‘Eight Reading Behaviours’ as drivers for improvements in literacy. This good practice resulting from the project will be shared across the consortia.

Cwm Rhymni continues to provide an in-house, on- line, personalised language course to further enhance the Welsh literacy standards of staff at all levels at Cwm Rhymni. This is used to identify further staff training needs by the School of Welsh at Cardiff University, thus ensuring that pupils are taught by teachers who are good language models. The strategy for improving staff literacy skills has proven to be highly effective. A Welsh language graduate has been appointed to facilitate the strategy by 40

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress assisting in the mentoring of staff and supporting staff by monitoring the linguistic standard of work sheets and presentations.

5.2 Improve Foundation Phase Targets for the Foundation Phase and provision and All schools have set targets for the Key Stages 2-4 have been set by standards of The percentage of learners at the end of the relevant phase / key stage. schools in line with the EAS target Welsh First Foundation Phase who reach at least Foundation setting cycle and are currently draft Language Phase Outcome 5 in Language, Literacy and Foundation Phase – Outcome 5 targets submitted for LA approval. Communication Skills in Welsh are noted in the table Targets are based on actual individual Welsh First pupil level targets. This accounts for below. Language 2014 2015 FP Outcome 5+ LA targets in some cases being lower Welsh First Language than prior performance. Blaenau Gwent 84.21% 77.63% FP Outcome 5+ 2012 2013 Caerphilly 90.70% 91.80% Blaenau Gwent 76.7% 82.9% Monmouthshire 94.00% 84.22% Caerphilly 87.7% 90.7% Foundation Phase – Outcome 5 Newport 91.46% 90.38% Monmouthshire 97.5% 86.0% Torfaen 95.45% 93.39% There was a large variance in Newport 91.0% 85.0% SE WALES 91.45% 90.11% performance across the region, but Torfaen 77.5% 82.8% there are only 20 Welsh medium Wales average 85.9% 87.0% schools in total. Increases range from

Targets have also been set for 1.6 percentage points in Caerphilly to Outcome 6 with a collective SE Wales 10.1 points in Monmouthshire with 2.8

target of 34.66% in 2014 and 30.98% points gain across the region. Blaenau in 2015. Gwent was the only LA with a decline in performance with a decrease of 7.3 points. However, this is just one The Cyfathrebu’n Cyfri initiative is in school. Performance was within the The EAS Literacy Initiative for the Foudation Phase in its final development stages. Central school target range for Blaenau English-medium schools, ‘Communication Matters’ training for Reception, Year 1, 2 and 3 Gwent and Torfaen, and exceeded will be rolled out across all Welsh-medium schools teachers will take place in the summer the school target range in Caerphilly, with a new, fit for purpose Welsh version term (July 2014) with all materials to Monmouthshire and Newport. (Cyfathrebu’n Cyfri) complied through collaboration be distributed at training events for

41

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress between the EAS and from representatives from the trialling in the autumn term of 2014. Outcome 6 performance is below the Welsh-medium sector. Further training is scheduled for the Wales average in all LAs other than autumn term to provide practitioners Newport. with an opportunity to evaluate progress to date and share good Welsh First practice. Support for roll-out will be Language provided by the Welsh in Education FP Outcome Support Team. The impact of the 5+

initiative will be monitored by schools. Performance 2014 Provisional Target 2015 Provisional Target 2016 Key Stage 2 75.68 87 Blaenau Gwent 85 Key Stage 2 90 The percentage of learners at the end of Key Stage 2 Caerphilly 92.27 95 95 who reach at least Level 4 in the teacher assessment % KS2 Welsh Monmouthshire 96.08 93 2014 2015 2016 Level 4+ 95 of Welsh are noted in the table below. Also noted are Newport 91.14 96 the number of pupils for 2013: Blaenau Gwent 84 70.4 82.1 95 Torfaen 88.07 95 Caerphilly 90.4 87.8 93.9 91 94 93 KS2 Welsh 2013 SE Wales 2011 2012 2013 Monmouthshire 85.7 87.8 93.9 Level 4+ Number of pupils Wales 89.82 - Blaenau Gwent 81.5% 82.1% 74.2% 31 Newport 94.4 92.5 93.5 Torfaen 48.7 82.7 62.1 Caerphilly 86.3% 88.1% 89.2% 251 SE Wales 90.4 86.4 87.7 Monmouthshire 90.3% 82.7% 82.6% 23 The Cyfathrebu’n Gyntaf initiative is

Newport 87.5% 82.4% 98.3% 59 underway with 19 of the 20 primary Targets have also been set for L5+ schools across the five authorities Torfaen 94.64% 87.88% 98.6% 69 with a collective SE Wales target of involved. Two rounds of training have Wales average 82% 84% 86.7% n/a 31.2% in 2013. 33.4% in 2015, and been held to date (June July and 31.9% in 2015. September/ October) for all year For the past three years there has been a continued groups. A working group will be upward trend in pupil attainment in Caerphilly (+2.9%), convened to review the project to Newport (+10.8%) and Torfaen (+3.96%). Results in date. Monmouthshire have dipped over a 3 year period (-

7.7%) but remain steady on 2012. Blaenau Gwent Key Stage 2 results show a downward trend (-7.3%).

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v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

% KS2 Key Stage 3 Welsh Level Key Stage 3 4+ 2015 2016 2017 2014

The percentage of learners at the end of Key Stage 3 % KS3 Performance Welsh 2014 2015 2016 who reach at least Level 5 in the teacher assessment Level 5+ Blaenau 88 69 93 82 of Welsh are noted in the table below. Gwent Caerphilly 96.69% 96.76% 97.61% Caerphilly 90 90 90 93 Torfaen 86.11% 88.49% 90.23% 2013 Monmouth. 83 86 87 88 KS3 Welsh Level 5+ 2011 2012 2013 Number of SE Wales 92.75% 93.52% 94.59% Newport 94 94 90 89 pupils Caerphilly Torfaen 92 99 94 94 75.9% 84.3% 88.1% 236 Targets have also been set for L6+ at Torfaen SE Wales 90 90 91 92 76.7% 83.1% 84.4% 186 69.17% in 2014, 73.52% in 2015 and Wales 88.1 Wales average 81.3% 84.2% 87.6% NA 73.4% in 2016.

Over the last three years performance in Welsh has increased at both Welsh-medium schools (+12.2% There was a large variance across the Caerphilly, +7.7% Torfaen). Performance at Ysgol region, but there are only 18 Welsh Gyfun Cwm Rhymni is above the national average medium schools in total with results at with results the third highest in the family of schools. Key Stage 2. Performance increased Attainment at Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw, despite an in Caerphilly (0.7 points), increasing trend is slightly below the national average Monmouthshire (0.3 points), and with results the ninth highest in the family of schools. Blaenau Gwent (14.2 points). In 2013, performance at both schools is below the Performance declined in Newport (4

median. points) and Torfaen (6.6 points).

However, performance remains Key Stage 4 significantly above the national figure in both Newport and Torfaen, and Key Stage 4 KS3 Welsh Level 2014 2015 5+ represents just 2 schools in each LA. Performance was within the school The percentage of learners at the end of Key Stage 4 Caerphilly 82.48% 82.55% target range for all LAs other than who achieve A*-C in GCSE Welsh First Language are Torfaen 83.72% 86.02% Newport where the target was noted in the table below: SE Wales 83% 84.09% exceeded.

The SE Wales target for L5+ (30.1%) 43

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Results in all schools are being was exceeded at 31.9% with KS4 Welsh GCSE 2011 2012 2013 monitored and challenged by the increased performance in all LAs A*-C SEWC EAS System Leaders and the other than Torfaen. Where increases Welsh in Education team Leader with were made, LA targets were Caerphilly 74.7% 80.3% 67.46% enhanced support and interventions exceeded with performance within Torfaen 71.8% 84% taking place by the EAS Welsh in target range in Monmouthshire. 74.63% Wales average 73.69% 73.27% Education Officers and EAS Welsh-

medium Foundation Phase Teacher 2014 Cluster moderation was Over the last three years performance at KS4 has Advisor. attended by EAS Welsh in Education fluctuated at Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni, with 2013 Officers with both clusters in receipt of results below the national average. Results in 2012 an EAS report on findings. were the first in the family of schools falling to the To ensure the transfer of good eighth in the family in 2013, below the median in the practice across Welsh-medium In October 2014 language third quartile. The issues involved are being primary schools, Ysgol y Castell, coordinators received training on the addressed by the school. Caerffili has been identified as a host EAS moderation guidance and school for the EAS Securing Good expectations for 2015 moderation. The KS4 Welsh language results of Ysgol Gyfun programme. This is a school-based The EAS document ‘ Sicrhau Gwynllyw for 2013 have shown a significant programme delivered in host schools, Rhagoriaeth mewn Asesiad Athro ’ has improvement on 2012 with an increasing three year by serving teachers and leaders with been developed and shared, including trend. Results in 2013 exceed national averages. a track-record of success for comprehensive guidance on Results in 2013 are the second highest in the family teachers. It aims to enable nominated moderation of Welsh. and above the median in quartile 1. teachers from other Welsh-medium schools whose teaching is generally Good to be at least Good at all times, Key Stage 3 and to be a platform for the development of Excellence.

% KS3 Welsh Level 2017 2015 2016

5+ 2014

Performance

Caerphilly 90 95 94 96 Torfaen 87 87 89 90 SE Wales 89 92 92 93 Wales 90 44

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

Performance at the expected level improved on 2013 in both LAs.

Key Stage 4

KS4 Welsh GCSE

A*-C 2014 2015 2016 2017

Performance

Caerphilly 73 84 89 86 Torfaen 80 81 82 83 SE Wales 77 82 86 85 Wales 73.69

Performance has decreased in Torfaen but remains above the national average by 7 points. Performance has increased in Caerphilly and is now on a par with the national average.

All school results have been analysed by the EAS with priority support being targeted to need and interventions taking place where there is underperformance.

The EAS Securing Good Programme,

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v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Anelu at Ragoriaeth was launched in late September 2014. All Welsh- medium schools are involved in this programme with Ysgol y Castell and Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni lead schools.

Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni works with the EAS in introducing the “Aiming for Excellence Strategy”. This is a Secondary school-based programme delivered in Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni, by serving teachers and leaders with a track-record of success for teachers. It aims to enable nominated teachers from other Welsh- medium schools across the region and South Central whose teaching is generally Good to be at least Good at all times, and to be a platform for the development of Excellence.

Key Stage Three Results

Welsh 2014 Boys. Girls. Pupils. Level 5 87% 92% 90% or higher Level 6 37% 64% 50% or higher

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v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress ESTYN have published a report investigating the continuity of Welsh First Language studies from KS2 to KS4. They note that the areas that consistently continue to ensure that pupils who are assessed at Welsh First Language throughout their statutory educational journey are those who have the lowest percentage of Welsh speakers.

Caerphilly has one of the highest rates of continuity of assessment at Welsh First Language from KS2 to KS4.

Comparison of reduction in Assessment of Welsh First Language from KS2 to KS4

2012 Populatio KS 4-KS 2 n Speaking Welsh Gwynedd 65.4% -19.84% Ynys Mon 57.2% -30.34% Sir Dinbych 24.6% -6.88% Conwy 27.4% -26.42% Sir y Fflint 13.2% -27.71% Wrecsam 12.9% 2.50% Sir Benfro 19.2% -29.31% 47

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Powys 18.6% -20.42% Ceredigion 47.3% -22.99% Sir Gaerfyrddin 43.9% -32.10% Abertawe 11.4% -3.30% Castell Nedd a Phort Talbot 15.3% -37.25% Bro Morgannwg 10.8% -12.94% Penybont - ar -Ogwr 9.7% -48.74% Caerdydd 11.1% -4.63% Caerffili 11.2% -5.10% Rhonda Cynon Taf 12.3% -2.47% Wales 19.00% -22.73%

They compare the percentage of pupils entered for GCSE Welsh First Language who are also assessed in at least 5 Level 1 or 2 subjects in Welsh.

Caerphilly (Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni) has one of the highest percentages of pupils entered for GCSE Welsh First Language who are also assessed in

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v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress at least 5 Level 1 or 2 subjects in Welsh.

Ysgol Gyfun Cwm 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Rhymni GCSE Welsh First Language 195 194 208 209 225 5 GCSE 120 119 104 119 126 5 GCSE+ BTEC 176 191 198 202 211

61.5 61.3 50.0 56.9 56.0 5 GCSE 4% 4% 0% 4% 0% 5 GCSE+B 90.2 98.4 95.1 96.6 93.7 TEC 6% 5% 9% 5% 8%

5.3 Increase All Welsh-medium schools offer pupils the chance to Local Authorities will continue to The EAS Welsh in Education team opportunities for participate in a wide range of activities e.g. lunch time support a range of providers and are in regular contact with the Urdd learners of all and after school clubs, participation in Urdd cultural initiatives in order to develop the use and Mentrau to support initiatives and ages to practise and sporting competitions including the annual of Welsh outside the classroom share information. their Welsh National Eisteddfod, swimming galas etc. All these including after school clubs. outside the activities are conducted through the medium of Welsh classroom and are well attended. These offer outstanding The Local Authorities in partnership opportunities to practice the Welsh language outside with the EAS System Leaders and the The Welsh in Education team are the classroom. The local Mentrau Iaith provide a Welsh in Education Support Team will liaising with Menter Casnewyd on the range of out of school activities enhancing extra- monitor the planning for the increase Mwy na Siarad project. curricular opportunities to speak Welsh. of informal Welsh by pupils and the support of student courses or visits All Welsh-medium schools offer pupils regular proposed through individual school opportunities to attend the Urdd residential camps to WEG expenditure plans. 49

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress participate in a range of residential activities. The EAS Welsh in Education Support team has formed a relationship with the newly appointed SE Wales Urdd Camps Officer (Swyddog Gwersylloedd yr Urdd) who has addressed the SE Wales Head teachers’ forum.

At both secondary schools co-ordinators have been appointed for the development of the Welsh ethos with the aim of developing the informal use of Welsh.

These co-ordinators collaborate with cluster schools to promote the informal use of Welsh. Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni have Through collaboration, Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and exteneded an invitation to Coleg y Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw have been developing Cymoedd to attend their Year 11 strategies for improving the informal use of Welsh Information Evening, so that they can among pupils across the SE Wales region. Strategies inform the pupils of how thay can include collaboration with wider partner schools. The maintain their Welsh language skills use of Welsh during unstructured times, is informally should they choose to attend the monitored through increased usage and confidence in College’s Ystrad Mynach campus. pupils. Caerphilly Caerphilly

Menter Iaith, the Urdd and Caerphilly CBC also jointly This provision and partnership work is employ and manage a Welsh speaking Youth Officer on-going and the programme The Urdd will continue to provide based at Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni. The project continues to develop. Funding for opportunities for Children and Young provides activities within the school, after school and these opportunities is limited however People to practice their Welsh outside within local communities for young people to use the and is dependent on Menter Iaith the classroom through various events Welsh language. This work includes providing art and securing funding sources. including, trips, clubs, residentials and Eisteddfod Genedlaethol yr Urdd drama clubs, supporting a Welsh-medium youth club Caerffili 2015. at Bargoed YMCA, supporting the work of the Youth Menter Iaith will continue to seek Forum and working with Menter Iaith officers to deliver further funding sources to maintain on-going consultation exercises with young people in provision. Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni have terms of their needs and aspirations for Welsh- introduced an “Adran” for secondary 50

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress medium services and opportunities. The LA will continue to develop school children in collaboration with cultural events to promote Welsh the Urdd at the Gwyndy site and an Both Menter Iaith Sir Caerffili and Urdd Gobaith language opportunities during 2014- “Adran” for primary school children in Cymru work collaboratively and independently to 15 in the lead up to the Eisteddfod in collaboration with the feeder schools provide a range of opportunities for children and Caerphilly including developing the at the Gellihaf site. The purpose of an young people to use the Welsh language outside link with Patagonia. adran is to enable those children school within a number of workshops and clubs during interested singing, music and term time and school holidays. This provision includes The Caerphilly WESP Forum will performing in general to develop their the following opportunities delivered by Menter Iaith: support the linkages between the skills through the medium of Welsh WESP and the Youth Service and to compete in Eisteddfods. • Termly Sgwad Sgwennu (Writing Squad) Strategy to support the inclusion of • Art and craft, cooking workshops in the services for all young people community • Miri Meithrin sessions during all school holidays – play sessions with a range of activities and information stalls for parents and children.

Urdd Gobaith Cymru now provide 23 number of sports clubs across the Borough for primary aged children after school during term time. 5.4 Improve provision and Key Stage 2 standards of The Local Authorities, working with Targets for Key Stages 2-4 have been Welsh Second The percentage of learners at the end of Key Stage 2 the EAS will continue to monitor and set by schools in line with the EAS Language who reach at least Level 4 in the teacher assessment evaluate standards in Welsh Second target setting cycle and are currently of Welsh Second Language are noted in the table Language and the quality of provision. draft targets submitted for LA below: Results in all schools are being approval. Targets are based on actual monitored and challenged by the individual pupil level targets. This KS2 Welsh 'second SEWC EAS System Leaders and the accounts for LA targets in some cases 2011 2012 2013 language' Level 4+ Welsh in Education Support Team being lower than prior performance. Blaenau Gwent 59.00% 63.9% 71% Leader with enhanced support and interventions taking place by the Individual school performance has 51

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

Caerphilly 23.40% 45.8% 65% Welsh in Education Officers. been analysed by the EAS Welsh in Monmouthshire 58.90% 76.9% 76% Education Support Team with profiles Welsh in Education Officers developed for all primary schools and Newport 66.50% 77.0% 79% responsible for Welsh Second target secondary schools, reviewing Torfaen 52.80% 72.0% 77% Language, will continue to work with performance and trends in Wales average 51.40% 61.6% 67.7% all primary schools and secondary performance as well as provision for English medium schools across the Welsh as a second language. EAS region to support the raising of Performance against the EAS standards in Welsh across the Success indicators and WESP targets Over the last 3 years the% of pupils achieving at least curriculum. have been discussed with all Head the expected level at KS2 across SE Wales schools teachers. Welsh in Education Officer has increased significantly (+20.5%). The percentage All schools will continue to be formally support is deployed according to need of pupils achieving at least the expected outcome is profiled in terms of standards at KS2, +5.3% above the Wales average of 67.7%. The with target schools for 2014-15 KS3, KS4 and post 16 and in terms of identified and programmes of support percentage of pupils achieving at least the expected provision for Welsh (analysis of underway. outcome is above the Wales average in 4 of the 5 subject time allocation, staff language LAs. Girls outperform boys by 11.4% (Wales’s skills and provision for the GCSE Full variance being13.2%). Caerphilly is the lowest Performance and Targets KS2 Course and the increase of pupil performing LA with the percentage of pupils achieving numbers entered for external L4+ being -2.7% lower than the Wales average. L4+ - Performance across the SE examinations). Local authority WESP However, the percentage of pupils achieving L4+ in Wales region has improved on 2013 targets will continue to be clearly Caerphilly has increased by +19.2% on 2012. and is at 76.8%. There is an upward 3 outlined to schools. School profiles Significant improvement has also been made in year trend of 11.1%. Performance is and performance in relation to WESP Blaenau Gwent. above the Wales average. Four out of targets will continue to be discussed the five counties across the SE Wales with Headteachers and documented region head the All Wales ranking in communications with schools table – Torfaen (1) Monmouthshire (2) relating to WEG expenditure planning. Newport (3) and Blaenau Gwent (4). Three of the five authorities are in the top five highest th performing LAs with four of the five authorities in the Caerphilly is positioned 9 – a th The focus of the EAS Welsh in significant improvement from 20 th top ten. Caerphilly climbed from the 20 position in th 2012 to the 14 th in 2013. Education team’s core and enhanced (2012) and 14 (2013). Four of the support will continue to be based on five South East Wales region LAs saw the strengths and weaknesses of an improvement at L4+ from the schools in relation to Welsh, as previous year. 52

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

Teacher Numberidentified of by an applied success assessmen Percentage Percentage Number t in Welsh of pupils achieving of pupils criteria used by the EAS Welsh in Number Second assessed in Level 4+ in assessed Education Officers with progress of pupils Level 4+ in Language Welsh Welsh in Welsh in Year 6 made in each school in the following at the end second second second KS2 Welsh of Key language language language areas monitored throughout the year: Second

Stage Language 2014 2015 2016 2017 Blaenau 688 95 71 657 • The school’s success in Level 4+ Gwent Performance embracing and reflecting the Caerphilly 1946 84 65 1630 Blaenau Gwent 79 81 74 77 Monmouth Welsh Government’s 844 97 76 821 73 -shire aspirations to promote a Welsh Caerphilly 75 72 75 Newport 1638 96 79 1576 ethos, to inform the learners of Monmouthshire 83 73 79 79 Torfaen 971 93 77 901 the benefits of learning the Newport 80 77 74 76 SE Wales 6087 92 73 5585 Welsh language and to Torfaen 85 72 83 82 provide appropriate 82 * Welsh 2nd language results not received from 2 opportunities for all pupils to SE Wales 80 74 77 73. Caerphilly schools - Crumlin High Level and White achieve their full potential in Rose Primary. relation to their Welsh Wales 1 language skills . KS2/3 Cluster Moderation • % of learners achieving level 4+/ 5+, A*-C GCSE Full and Performance and Targets KS3 The Local Authorities, working in partnership with the Short Curse in Welsh Second EAS monitor teacher assessment at key stages 2 and Language. Numbers studying L5+ - Performance across the SE 3. EAS Welsh in Education Officers attend all final SE the Full Course. Numbers Wales region has improved on 2013 Wales Welsh second language cluster moderation studying AS/A level. by +3.8% at 76.7%. Performance is meetings to support and monitor the cluster • The quality and impact of above target but 1.1% below the moderation process and the quality of school based standardisation and Wales average of 77.8%. moderation leading to cluster moderation. moderation Monmouthshire is ranked as the • Leadership and management number one in LA in the All Wales Across the 4 Local Authorities of the region that were of Welsh ranking table, moving from 9 th in supported by the Torfaen Welsh Advisory Service • The impact of self- evaluation 2013. Blaenau Gwent has moved prior to the EAS, clusters proved an 88% overall of teaching and learning on from 15 th to 11 th position in the table in success rate in the External Cluster Moderation future planning 2014 and Caerphilly, Newport and Exercise of 2012 (WJEC). However, the impact of Key • The level of staff confidence Torfaen have all moved down the 53

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Stage 2/3 Cluster Moderation national exercise of and training table in 2014. Caerphilly is the lowest 2012 varies greatly from cluster to cluster and across • Estyn inspection findings and performing LA, ranked 22 nd out of 22 schools within clusters. The following observations recommendations LAs. Performance in all LAs is above were made by EAS Welsh in Education Officers target. Performance in Blaenau Gwent across all 5 Local Authorities during 2013 cluster Additional enhanced support will be Monmouthshire and Torfaen is above moderation sessions: targeted to schools in most need. the Wales average. These schools are identified by the Typically , schools were aware of the need to bring a Welsh in Education Officers according KS3 range of work by an individual pupil across all ATs to to performance in the identified Welsh Perfo cluster moderation to demonstrate sufficient evidence success criteria and in collaboration rman Target Target Second ce 2015 2017 in order to apply the best fit. All cluster schools were with Local Authorities and System Lang. 2014 represented at the meetings. Profiles included work Leaders. L5+ Blaenau demonstrating the appropriate level. However, many 78.7 75% 78% Gwent profiles needed further evidence of the Range to Schools and clusters will have access ensure that colleagues could fully agree the best-fit. Caerphilly 72.8 73% 80% to the EAS comprehensive training Monmouth 83.8 77% 82% Teacher / school annotation was underdeveloped. programme for staff to enable them to shire Consideration of adjacent levels should be further deliver NC programmes of study in Newport 75.2 77% 82% developed. order to respond to initiatives Torfaen 79.4 79% 82% promoted by the Welsh Government In the most developed cases we saw clusters where Wales 77.7 to further raise standards. the majority of schools brought annotated learner profiles with the necessary range of work provided to Further work will be done by the agree the best-fit. Schools within the best clusters are Welsh Language Support Team to Members of the Welsh in Education continuing to produce profiles to the standard ensure consistency in assessment Support team facilitated and expected for external moderation with detailed written across the south east Wales region supported 100% of cluster moderation teacher / school based commentary providing the and to further improve the reliability of meetings held in the Summer Term background of the pupil, task contexts and cross assessment across all schools. The 2013 (35 English-medium clusters). referencing between the profile and the level Welsh Language Support Team will All clusters have received a written descriptions (including adjacent levels). The teachers expect schools to have rigorous report on findings including additional were able to appropriately able to scrutinise each assessment, targeting and tracking guidance and a general regional other’s evidence and challenge where appropriate. systems in place. report on practice shared to all Head There was evidence of internal moderation prior to teachers. cluster moderation at both KS2 and KS3. 54

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Key Stage 3 The Welsh Language Support Team The EAS document, ‘Securing will support standardisation and Excellence in Teacher Assessment’ The percentage of learners at the end of Key Stage 3 moderation (KS2, KS3 and at KS4) has been developed to included best who reach at least Level 5 in the teacher assessment across the 5 LA’s in order to establish practice advice and guidance on of Welsh Second Language are noted in the table a common understanding and standardisation and moderation below. application of standards across processes as well as subject-specific schools and LAs. guidance for English, Welsh and % KS3 Welsh Second 2011 2012 2013 Welsh second language. The Language L5+ The EAS Welsh in Education Team document is being used as the basis 63.90% 65.1% 73% Blaenau Gwent will utilise the EAS Excellence in for school based advice central and Caerphilly 61.50% 65.3% 68% Teaching Framework as a tool for training. Monmouthshire 66.40% 77.1% 75% raising standards of teaching and learning in Welsh and Welsh Second Newport 64.50% 67.6% 75% Language and to promote best KS4 Performance and Targets Torfaen 57.00% 63.6% 77% practice. The team will define, on a Wales average 64.60% 68.2% 73% subject level, the characteristics of the Full Course 6 elements of the framework and will Over the last 3 years the% of pupils achieving at least provide and capture practice worth the expected level across SE Wales schools has sharing to support the delivery of the KS4 Welsh framework. Full course increased (+10.6%).The percentage of pupils 2013 2014 achieving at least the expected outcome is on a par Performance 2012 A*-C with the Wales average (+0.2%). Girls outperform Targets KS2: Blaenau Gw 83 82.61 83.7 boys by 17.6% (Wales variance 17.2%). Caerphilly is It is not a statutory requirement for Caerphilly 62.7 58.87 61.4 the lowest performing LA with the percentage of pupils schools to set targets for improvement Monmouth. 85.6 75.20 93 achieving L5+ being -5.3% lower than the Wales for non-core subjects however the Newport 84.9 47.47 67.7 average. Outcomes have improved in all but one LA following targets are set as Torfaen 79.3 96.25 81.7 with significant improvements on 2012 made in aspirational targets for schools. Wales 73.6 76.8 77.7 Torfaen (+13.5% L5+). A slight decrease on 2012

seen in Monmouthshire, but results still above the KS2 Welsh

EAS and national averages. Second Over the last three years the Language 2013 2015 2017 percentage of pupils entered for Level 4+ Blaenau Gwent 71.1% 72% 80% Welsh second language full course 55

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

Caerphilly 64.5% 60% 76% achieving A*-C grades have increased Teacher Percentag Number of Percentage Number of in Blaenau Gwent, Monmouthshire assessment Number e pupils 75% 75% 84% of pupils pupils Monmouthshire in Welsh of achieving achieving and Torafen and Newport. assessed assessed Second pupils Level 5+ LevelNewport 5+ 78.2% 77% 84% in Welsh in Welsh Performance is above the Wales Language at in Year in Welsh in Welsh second second 76.4% 75% 84% the end of 9 second secondTorfaen average in Blaenau Gwent, language language Key Stage 3 language Targetslanguage KS3 Monmouthshire and Torfaen.

Blaenau KS3 Welsh Target 690 100 73 690 502 Target Gwent Second 2013 s s 2017 Caerphilly 2076 89 68 1840 Language' 1249 L5+ 2015 KS4 Welsh Perf. Target Target Monmouth Full course 2014 15 17 809 100 75 809 Blaenau 607 Gwent 68.2% 73% 78% shire 72.75 A*-C 73% 80% Blaenau Newport 1640 100 75 1640 Caerphilly 1229 % 83.7 83% 85% Gwent 77.44 Torfaen 1224 85 77 1038 800 76% 82% Caerphilly 61.4 68% 75% Monmouthshire % 93 77% 80% SE Wales 6439 93 73 6017 4387 75.03 Monmouth. 75% 82% Newport 67.7% 70% 72% Newport % Key Stage 4 Full Course 74.98 Torfaen 81.7 75% 80% 74% 82% 77.7% (or OCR NVQ Level 2 equivalent – 1 school – Torfaen % Wales Newport High) Wales average 73.3% n/a n/a

There is significant variation in the The percentage of learners at the end of Key Stage 4 number of pupils entered for Full who achieve grades A*-C in GCSE Welsh Second Course examinations ranging from 87 KS4 Targets Language Full Course are noted in the table below: candidates in Blaenau Gwent to 486

entries in Caerphilly (264 KS4 Welsh KS4 Welsh Target Target Monmouthshire, 487 Newport,138 Full course A*- 2013 2013 C 2011 2012 Full course A*- s 2015 s 2017 Torfaen). C Blaenau Gwent 72.82% 83% 82.61% Blaenau Gwent 82.61% 77% 85% Short Course Caerphilly 66.27% 62.71% 58.87% Caerphilly 58.87% 75% 75% Monmouthshire 72.20% 85.6% 75.20% 75.2% 77% 80% Newport 70.70% 84.9% 47.47% Monmouthshire KS4 Welsh Short 59.71% 79.3% 96.25% Newport 47.47% 76% 76% 2013 2014 Torfaen course 2012 SE Wales - - 63.89% Torfaen 96.25% 75% 80% A*-C 56

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

Blaenau Gw 54.58 46.31 37.4 Wales average 71.6% 73.6% 76.8% Wales average 76.8% n/a n/a Caerphilly 50 43.12 38.6 Over a three year period the percentage of learners Monmouth. 47.60 52.78 56.4 Newport 51.5 51.24 61.5 who have achieved A*-C in the Full Course qualification has increased in Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen 37 39.91 44.5 Wales 49.6 46.12 50.5 Monmouthshire and increased significantly in Torfaen Targets KS4 Welsh short (+36.54%). Over a three year period, results have 2013 2015- course A*-C decreased in Caerphilly and significantly decreased in 2017 Over the last three years performance has Newport. 46.31% 65% Blaenau Gwent declined in Blaenau Gwent, and NB Monmouthshire 43.12% 60% Caerphilly. Perfromance has improved in However, fluctuations in pupil numbers opting for the Caerphilly 52.78% 58% Full Course and schools offering Welsh second 51.24% 60% language Full Course as part of the core school Newport KS4 Welsh curriculum are impacting positively and negatively on Torfaen 39.91% 50% Short Perf. Target 2014 15-17 standards and causing significant variations in data Wales average 46.12% n/a course trends year on year. A*-C To increase Full Course entry Blaenau Gwent 37.4 65% Key Stage 4 Short Course Caerphilly 38.6 60% numbers at KS4, schools will be 56.4 58% Monmouth. encouraged to establish Welsh as a Newport 60% The percentage of learners at the end of Key Stage 4 core subject (Full Course for all at Torfaen 44.5 50% who achieve grades A*-C in GCSE Welsh Second KS4). Where Welsh is not established Wales 50.5 Language Short Course are noted in the table below: as a Core subject, teaching the Full Monmouthshire, Newport and Torfaen. Course to large groups of students / all across 3 years (Y9-11) should be The % of the cohort entered for Welsh KS4 Short course A*- 2011 2012 2013 explored. Successful local curriculum qualifications has increased on 2013 in all C models will continue be shared. LAs other than Monmouthshire. Blaenau Gwent 67.12% 54.58% 46.31% Schools will be encouraged to share Monmouthshire 60.40% 50% 43.12% good practice and resources through The percentage of the cohort entered for Welsh Second Language Level 2 Caerphilly 42.27% 47.60% 52.78% regular meetings and PLCs. qualifications has increased in all LAs 53.00% 51.5% 51.24% Newport % of the co hort entered Full Target other than Newport. Torfaen 27.88% 37% 39.91% for Welsh Second course 2015- Language GCSE 2013 2017 Wales average 46.8% 49.6% 46.12% 57

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

Blaenau Gwent 12.7% 25% % of the cohort The number of learners who sit GCSE Welsh Second Caerphilly 34.48% 40% not entered for 2014 2013 Language Short Course and Full Course as a Monmouthshire 41.42% 45% Welsh Second percentage of the cohort are outlined in the table Language GCSE Newport 16.79% 30% 31.23 28.3 below. Also noted are the % of learners who do not sit Blaenau Gwent 11.42% 25% Caerphilly 27.49 25.34 any external examination in Welsh Second Language: Torfaen Monmouthshire 13.99 18.7 Newport 26.26 17.99 27.77 15.6 % of the cohort The Local Authorities, working with Torfaen % of entered for Short Full Total cohort the EAS will continue to ensure that Welsh Second course course Welsh not every pupil in an English-medium Language GCSE entered secondary school is given the 2013 opportunity to sit an external 56.07% 12.7% 31.23% Blaenau Gwent 68.77% examination in Welsh as a second Caerphilly 38.03% 34.48% 72.51% 27.49% language by the end of KS4 and Monmouthshire 44.59% 41.42% 86.01% 13.99% increase the percentage of pupils Newport 56.95% 16.79% 73.74% 26.26% entered for GCSE Welsh Second Torfaen 60.81% 11.42% 72.23% 27.77% Language (full and short course) or NVQ Level 2 equivalent.

A high proportion of learners from the SE Wales Schools will continue to be asked to region sit an external examination in Welsh, although link their WEG expenditure to LA the majority sit the Short Course examination. WESP targets.

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v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

5.5 Increase The EAS Welsh Education Officers work closely with The Local Authorities will continue to There is a continued support and opportunities for schools to raise the profile of the Welsh Language support a range of providers and training programme by the EAS Welsh learners of all outside the Welsh classroom and provide advice to initiatives in order to develop the use in Education Officers. ages to practise schools, including: of Welsh outside the classroom. their Welsh • providing teachers with examples of how to Schools should continue to offer outside the take opportunities to use every day Welsh opportunities for learners to classroom during exemplar lessons in the Foundation experience Welsh beyond the (English- Phase and at KS2 classroom. medium • providing teachers with examples of how to schools) take opportunities to integrate Welsh into The Welsh Language Support Team outside play in the Foundation Phase and into will continue to offer training, support Yard Games at KS1 and KS2 and guidance on enhancing the use of Welsh in all areas. • providing teachers with examples of how to use every day Welsh during assemblies and The LAs, and schools will continue to public occasions work with Menter Iaith and Urdd • implementing the Helpwr Heddiw strategy, with Gobaith Cymru. The Welsh Language pupils being given responsibility for giving Support Team will work with local instructions and commands to their peers Mentrau in the Urdd in targeting through the medium of Welsh schools and clusters of schools. • providing an exemplar Welsh language development policy • producing the ‘Bilingualism at its best’ document demonstrating a whole-school approach to developing the Welsh language across the school

The EAS Welsh in Education Support Team provides a comprehensive Welsh Second language central and in-house training programme for Headteachers, teachers, classroom assistants, administration staff etc. This comprises courses which enhance practitioners’ ability to develop bilingualism within and

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v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress beyond the classroom.

The Welsh in Education Support Team work closely with the Urdd in informing schools about the range of activities and residential courses available. Links have been forged with the newly appointed South East Wales Urdd Residential Camp Officer (Swyddog y Gwersylloedd) who has attended and addressed the EAS Welsh in Education Support Team’s primary Welsh-medium headteacher network meetings and the secondary heads of department forum. The Urdd and Menter Iaith have also been recently represented at Welsh second language primary coordinator forums.

During 2012-13, 889 Year 5 and 6 pupils from 20 primary schools across the 5 LAs have attended Welsh residential courses at Llangrannog. All Secondary schools offer regular opportunities for pupils to attend the Urdd camps at Llangrannog and Glanllyn and of the 34 Secondary schools, 22 schools have attended at least 1 Urdd camp during the last year. 5.6 Increase the Concerns remain as to the future of Welsh and Welsh The EAS Welsh in Education Team, Number of students total A Level second language AS and A level courses. There CYDAG and schools will continue to entering Welsh Welsh and continues to be an annual reduction in the numbers highlight issues surrounding the courses at KS5 in Welsh Second following the courses with numbers studying AS suitability of WJEC courses and A AS Language Welsh Second Language in 2013 critical. monitor post 16 examination 2014 entries as a specifications. Caerphilly 7 3 percentage of The number of students completing courses Welsh at Torfaen 7 0 GCSE Welsh AS/A level in 2013 are as follows: The Welsh in Education Support South East Wales 14 3 and Welsh Team will continue to challenge 60

v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Second English-medium schools to ensure Number of Number of students entering AS A2 Language suitable provision for Full Course students Welsh courses at KS5 in 2013 entering Welsh entries. Welsh at KS4 to enable pupils’ A AS Caerphilly 6 9 linguistic skills to be sufficiently second language courses at KS5 Torfaen 7 2 developed in preparation for a post 16 course. in 2014 South East Wales 13 11 Blaenau Gwent ** - -

The 14-19 Learning Partnerships to Caerphilly 17 6 The number of students studying Welsh Second continue to ensure that all learners 3 Language at AS/A level in 2013 are as follows: Monmouthshire 10 are able to access Welsh courses at 8 KS5 Newport 21 Number of students Torfaen 23 3 entering Welsh second AS A2 71 20 language courses at KS5 South East Wales in 2013 Blaenau Gwent 2 4 ** Caerphilly 1 19 Monmouthshire 3 12 Blaenau Gwent pupils attend Coleg Newport 11 31 Gwent. Data not available to EAS. Torfaen 3 11

South East Wales 20 77 Targets for 2017 remain as originally set.

Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni leads a Professional Learning Community for Welsh language studies. Five of the family of schools, including Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw, collaborate in this PLC with an emphasis on developing a collaborative approach towards A level Welsh Language.

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v.20.6.14 A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress The Welsh in Education Support Team provide The Urdd will continue to provide support and challenge to all secondary schools to: opportunities for Children and Young • Improve standards of Welsh and particularly People to practice their Welsh outside Welsh Second language at Key Stages 3 and 4, to the classroom through various events adequately prepare students for the possibility of including, trips, clubs, residentials and further Welsh studies at KS5. Eisteddfod Genedlaethol yr Urdd • Increase numbers of pupils opting to study Welsh Caerffili 2015. Second language Full Course at KS4 to attract more students at AS/A Level • Work with the Mentrau Iaith and the Urdd to encourage learners’ use of Welsh language skills beyond the classroom.

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v.20.6.14

Outcome 6: Welsh-medium provision for learners with Additional Learning Needs

A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

6.1 Improve South East Wales South East Wales Welsh-medium additional All pupils with Additional Learning Needs educated through Undertake audit of Welsh Language ALN provision and learning needs the medium of Welsh are provided for in mainstream inclusion practitioners Welsh language skills by July provision (ALN) schools. 2014.

Parents are offered the process of conducting the SEN Develop plans to provide specialist Welsh-medium Statutory Assessment through the medium of English, primary provision within a mainstream primary school Welsh or bilingually. within the Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw cluster of schools.

Where appropriate, additional advice and support is Develop a managed moves protocol between Welsh- provided to Welsh-medium schools by a range of Welsh medium schools in the area to provide for pupils at risk speaking educational professionals, which includes of disaffection or exclusion by April 2015. educational psychologists, advisory teachers / school improvement and inclusion advisers, SpLD teachers, Communication and Intervention Team, Hearing Impairment Service, Visual Impairment Service etc.

Within Caerphilly, there are two Welsh-medium specialist classes located within a mainstream primary school.Ysgol Cwm Rhymni is also resourced to meet the needs of young people with complex needs. There are currently no specialist resource bases or specialist alternative education provision within the other four authorities. .

PLC established to improve teaching and learning of Welsh in special schools and resource bases.

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A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress

Caerphilly Caerphilly

In Caerphilly Local Authority currently 20% of primary pupils Continue to develop specialist outreach support to and 13% of secondary pupils are educated through the Welsh-medium settings from Primary Specialist medium of Welsh. Within Welsh-medium schools 1% have Resource Base. a statement of special educational needs, 6% are identified at School Action+ and 10% at School Action. The entire Continue to monitor demand for Welsh language ALN process of drawing up a SEN Statement, including all the provision through agreed protocols and further develop documentation, is offered to parent/guardians in Welsh, early years parent forums. English or bilingually at the start of the statutory assessment process

In line with Caerphilly’s Inclusion Policy the majority of pupils in Welsh-medium education who have additional learning needs, are educated within mainstream settings. Where appropriate additional advice and support and will be provided by a range of Welsh speaking educational professionals, which includes Teaching Assistants, Advisory Teachers and Support Officers (Cognition and Learning & Behaviour) and Educational Psychologists. Welsh speaking Officers are able to contribute to the assessment of the special educational needs of children through the medium of Welsh and offer advice, guidance and support and training The LA has appointed an appropriately qualified Welsh As part of the to Welsh-medium pupils and schools. The Local Authority speaking teacher for the visually impaired service. This ALN Review it has identified that the regional Visual Impairment Service is a regional service which will also benefit the other has been (for which it is host) is now able to provide specialist support local authority areas. agreed that the through the medium of Welsh. current funding arrangements A specialist outreach service is available through the The complex needs provision in Cwm Rhymni and Cwm for specialist medium of Welsh from the Ganolfan in Cwm Derwen and Derwen, is a model of best practice and could be provision in from the Outreach Teacher from Trinity Fields. developed regionally with collaboration from the other Cwm Rhymni

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A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress authorities. should be For pupils with SEN, excellent transition arrangemements formalised. are established between Cwm Derwen and Cwm Rhymni. Initial discussions Support through the medium of Welsh is also available from Continue to maintain the existing excellent transition have taken two members of staff from the Super Shell-by initiative, arrangements between Cwm Derwen and Cwm place which supports children and families in early years settings Rhymni. regarding this. who have identified speech, language and communication A paper will be difficulties. Monitor and review the funding requirements for the written Basic Needs Unit in Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni identifying a Caerphilly LA appraises the demand for Welsh language range of ALN provision on an annual basis with particular attention options given to collecting the views of families who have children including the less than 3 years of age. The admission process identifies possibility of children with additional learning needs whose parents are the requesting Welsh-medium education. There is an agreed development communication protocol between the Admissions Team and of regional Learning, Education and Inclusion Services, which SEN provision. promotes early identification and planning. This is further It is hoped supported through a multi-agency early years Integrated formal Service for Children with Additional Needs (ISCAN). This consultation service adopts a ‘team around the family’ approach. will begin by the end of The Family of Secondary Schools has established a cross December regional PLC around Welsh-medium ALN provision, led by 2014. Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni.

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Outcome 7: Workforce planning and Continuous Professional Development

A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress 7.1 Ensure that there are Primary school vacancies: The Education Achievement Service, in sufficient There were no primary school vacancies to teach partnership with schools, will explore ways numbers of through the medium of Welsh at the start of September of attracting suitable candidates with good practitioners to 2013. However, there have been difficulties in recruiting quality Welsh language skills to fill deliver Welsh- to a number of key roles with secondments and vacancies in Welsh-medium settings and medium alternative staffing structures implemented. in Welsh Second language departments in education English-medium Secondary schools. Secondary school vacancies: Schools will be urged to employ Welsh There were no Welsh-medium secondary school teacher Second language specialist teachers. vacancies in September 2013. However difficulties with recruitment have occurred in a number of areas, Developing Welsh leaders from within The EAS Excellent teacher particularly science, with non-specialist staff used to local schools will be a priority within the programmes and Excellent cover posts. EAS leadership programme. There are leader programmes are now All secondary school vacancies to teach Welsh Second currently 5 primary teachers and two available for Welsh-medium language were filled at the start of September 2013. secondary teachers from the Welsh- schools. However, a number of secondary schools are utilising medium-sector involved in the EAS/ Welsh speakers rather than suitably qualified specialist University of S Wales Welsh teachers to teach Welsh as a second language. PG Cert Programme and 10 primary There were no teaching assistant vacancies to work teachers from the sector involved with the through the medium of Welsh not filled at the start of Excellence in Teaching Portal ILM September 2013. programme. Cwm Rhymni is a Lead Practitioner School. The Local Authorities and EAS Welsh in Education Support Team provide support for all Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher appointments, and provide support and advice for teaching appointments as required. In order to increase the number of Welsh speaking Teaching Assistants, the LAs are currently working with Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw to

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A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress support a NVQ Teaching Assistant course for post 16 pupils. This highly successful course has been in place since 2006.

Caerphilly Caerphilly Cwm Rhymni continues to provide an in-house, on-line, Local Authority officers will continue to The first cohort of learners personalised language course to further enhance the promote childcare as a career and work studying QCF Level 2 Welsh literacy standards of staff at all levels at Cwm with young people, 14 – 19 Pathways, Childcare Learning and Rhymni. This is used to identify further staff training Mudiad Meithrin, Menter Iaith and Development started in needs by the School of Welsh at Cardiff University, thus Headteachers, including developing September 2014 ensuring that pupils are taught by teachers who are good further opportunities to qualify (QCF language models. The strategy for improving staff literacy Childcare Learning and Development) skills has proven to be highly effective. A Welsh through the medium of Welsh. Target to language graduate has been appointed to facilitate the start QCF level 2 in September 2014 in strategy by assisting in the mentoring of staff and Cwm Rhymni. supporting staff by monitoring the linguistic standard of work sheets and presentations. Welsh language courses will be offered to Early Years staff are accessing childcare staff across the borough to Cwrsiaeth Meithrin to support There have been historical issues regarding fluent, increase language skills both in a CPD their use of Welsh language in qualified and experienced childcare practitioners working and a qualificatory capacity. This will be childcare settings. There will within Cylchoedd Meithrin, Clwb Meithrin and Clwb done in conjunction with the Council’s be a rolling programme of Carco. Within Caerphilly there is significant work to Equalities and Welsh Language team who courses in 2015 across each of promote childcare / Early Years career pathways with have corporate CCBC responsibility for the three clusters. This will be school leavers to promote childcare as a career within Equalities and Welsh Language training, evaluated for impact on Welsh Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni. monitoring and reporting. The annual language usage through report (by academic year) containing the Advisory teacher and The LA has a proactive recruitment policy for Welsh numbers who attended and the courses development officer speaking /bilingual Teaching Assistants (TAs). The ability offered, is available on line at observations. to speak Welsh is stated as a desirable criterion when www.caerphilly.gov.uk/equalities . recruiting staff to work with children with special Families have also requested educational needs and an essential criterion in some Cymraeg I’r Teulu courses so

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A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress appointments Welsh-medium training is available for all they can support their child TAs. with incidental Welsh at home.

Currently 19 Welsh /bilingual speaking Teaching Assistants are employed by Learning, Education and Inclusion Service to support Welsh/ bilingual speaking pupils within Welsh-medium Primary Schools in Caerphilly.

In order to increase the number of Welsh speaking Teaching Assistants, the Authority is currently working with Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and YG Gwynllyw to support a NVQ Level 2 Teaching Assistant course for post 16 pupils as well as working with ACT to deliver the new QCF level 3 CCLD work based learning qualification for childcare staff.

The Authority also offers Welsh language courses as part of its corporate training strategy.

In the Childcare Workforce Audit conducted in March 2011, Welsh language training came out as one of the highest areas for training needs across the sector, (both Welsh and English medium). The Family Information Service records the level of Welsh used in the setting as defined by the Welsh Government. The workforce audit January 2014, shows that 5% of the Welsh-medium workforce has achieved the Welsh Diploma in Childcare and/or the Geiriau Bach Level 4. Over 9% of those who indicated they wished to work towards a national qualification in the future, would prefer to do it through the medium of Welsh. Over 36% of the

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A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress workforce would like to learn or improve their Welsh language skills. Along with SEN training this was the greatest area for further learning indicated by the Audit.

Of the 14 Cylchoedd Meithrin in the county borough, data collected 31st Aug 2012), 9 describe themselves as Welsh-medium, 4 as Welsh-medium and English Medium, and 1 as Bilingual. This indicates a need amongst Cylchoedd Meithrin for additional Welsh Language training and additional Welsh language practitioners.

In addition, • 3 Childminders describe themselves as (B) Welsh-English settings [12 places] • 2 Childminders as (C) Bilingual settings [10 places] • 3 day nurseries who describe themselves as (C) Bilingual settings [110 places]. • A further 3 Childminders categorised as (B) or (C) are not offering currently [10 places].

There have been historical issues regarding fluent, qualified and experienced childcare practitioners working within Cylchoedd Meithrin / Clwb Carco. Within Caerphilly there is significant work to promote childcare / Early Years career pathways with school leavers to promote childcare as a career within Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni. Mudiad Meithrin have recently been awarded £6million in funding to deliver the Cam Wrth Gam training programme over 3 years to ensure an increase in trained

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A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Welsh speaking childcare staff.

7.2 Improve In 2013 the EAS System Leaders in Welsh-medium Head teachers in English-medium schools The level of staff training and practitioners’ schools and Welsh in Education Officers in English will continue to be challenged to ensure confidence is one of the EAS linguistic skills. medium schools, monitored proposed WEG expenditure that WEG expenditure is targeted towards Welsh in Education Support Improve plans on behalf of the Local Authorities. Assistance with language and methodology training with Team’s Success Indicators in practitioners’ expenditure planning and feedback on submitted plans continued scrutiny of WEG expenditure Welsh Second Language. Staff methodological was provided to all schools by EAS Welsh in Education plans by the Welsh in Education Officers. language skills and training skills Officers. Head teachers were made aware of the need needs is therefore discussed for expenditure to be linked to school development needs The EAS Welsh in Education Support with all Head teachers with in terms of meeting WESP targets and making progress Team will ensure that planning for future schools encouraged to allocate against the EAS Welsh in Education Team’s applied central training reflects the needs of WEG funding towards success criteria. Plans were submitted onto the EAS schools according to the EAS success improving practitioner’s School Secure website for scrutiny and authorisation by criteria (level of staff confidence and linguistic and methodological EAS staff. The Welsh in Education Officers authorised or training) and the WG skills audit. skills. Head teachers are also requested a revised expenditure plan from the schools encouraged to consider the according to the development needs of the school. The The EAS Welsh in Education Support WG Sabbatical Scheme for EAS Welsh in Education Officers continue to monitor Team will strengthen links with the EAS practitioners who need to WEG expenditure by schools and report to the Welsh in Literacy Team to ensure that Welsh- improve their language skills. Education Support Team Leader. medium schools are able to access suitable methodology training and drive up Schools are provided with This process has led to an increase in the uptake of standards in dual literacy. They will also Welsh in Education Officer central EAS Welsh second language, language and continue to provide targeted language and support at levels according to methodology training courses and schools planning more methodology training within individual need. strategically for their training needs. schools. Trainers from outside the region will be utilised according to the demand Following Welsh in Education The level of staff training and confidence has been one of from schools. Officer discussions with Head the EAS Welsh in Education Team’s applied success teachers in Welsh-medium criteria since April 2013. At that time all schools were The EAS Welsh in Education Support schools, the Sabbatical assessed / audited in terms of their performance against Team will continue to work with the Scheme lead at Cardiff the applied success criteria. This was revisited in line Sabbatical Team in selecting suitable University has been notified of with the need to conduct the Welsh Government’s skills candidates to participate in the Sabbatical schools where there is keen

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A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress audit in Summer 2013 with the Welsh Governments Scheme courses; monitoring the impact of interest in releasing staff for criteria used. In-house language and methodology the scheme on participants’ return to Sabbatical Scheme training. training for 2013-14 has been targeted according the school; and provide courses to further EAS Welsh team’s findings (April 2013). The programme enhance participants’ linguistic skills. The The EAS training programme for the financial year is constructed a year in advance. results of the WG skills audit conducted by for 2014-15 includes 121 days However the CPD programme of 2014-15 onwards will the EAS Welsh in Education Team during training (60 days language reflect the work of the EAS Welsh in Education team in Summer 2013 will assist the team in training for practitioners in completing the WG skills audit. targeting schools where language skills English-medium schools). need developing. Bespoke training, including For Welsh Second Language, the EAS Welsh in language training, is also being Education Team Leader and members of the Welsh in delivered within schools Education Support Team have assessed all schools’ (English and Welsh-medium needs in line with an EAS Welsh in Education Support schools). Team’s applied success criteria as outlined in Outcome 5. All schools are applied a score for performance in Practitioners who have each individual criteria. Officers work with all schools on attended the WG Sabbatical developing and improving the aspects identified as scheme are monitored and weakest. The weakest schools across local Authorities supported by the EAS Welsh in are provided with additional targeted intervention and Education Support Team upon training. their return to their schools. Together they complete the Links have been formed between the EAS Welsh in questionnaire in the Education Team and the local WG Sabbatical team. practitioner’s ‘Progression Methodology sessions have recently been provided by Pack’ and agree on specific an EAS Welsh in Education Officer (Second Language). quantitative targets for the Participants who have attended the scheme are being school. supported and monitored by this officer on return to their schools and are provided with informal opportunities to NQTs were addressed by speak Welsh outside of school hours in informal settings. members of the EAS Welsh in Education Support team in Members of the EAS Welsh in Education Support Team their induction conferences address all newly qualified teachers as part of the EAS with suitable EAS training

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A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress early induction agenda with the work of the Welsh in opportunities and the Education Officers outlined and further appropriate Sabbatical Scheme courses signposted. highlighted. Designated Secondary NQT training has been provided to Secondary practitioners. 7.3 Integrate Between April 2012 and September 2013, 742 Teaching The EAS Welsh in Education Support EAS Welsh team support is Welsh-medium Assistants from English-medium schools have attended Team will continue to work to support the being targeted according to considerations the SE Wales Welsh in Education Support Team’s teaching of Welsh and Welsh Second need. The following number of into each aspect Welsh-language courses (304 since April 2013). Target Language across the consortium on behalf schools are being provided of the School schools have received bespoke in-house training. An of Local Authorities within the South East with the highest levels of Effectiveness increase has been seen in demand due to specialist Wales region. Support will continue to be support in 2014-15: Framework scrutiny of WEG expenditure plans by Welsh in strategically targeted according to Welsh Second Language, Education Officers and the increased availability of individual schools’ areas of need and Primary: service to Caerphilly schools. enhanced support provided to schools in Blaenau Gwent: 11 greatest need of challenge and Caerphilly:32 intervention. Monmouthshire:16 Since April 2013 the Welsh in Education Support Team Newport: 10 has also provided in-house language training for teaching The monitoring of the WEG will continue to Torfaen:17 assistants to a number of Welsh-medium schools, be undertaken by the EAS to ensure totalling 103 staff members. strategic use of the funding. Priority schools have also been identified in the Welsh-medium

At present there are a range of Professional Learning sector and for Secondary, Communities within individual schools, clusters and Welsh Second Language. across local authorities with the expressed aim of developing Welsh (First and Second Language) and Welsh-medium methodologies, including the highly successful partnership working across Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw and wider partners (Partneriaeth 6). The EAS Welsh In Education Support Team has established PLCs to improve standards in Welsh/Welsh

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A. Objective B. Current performance C. Targets D. Progress Second language: • literacy in Welsh-medium schools (8 reading behaviours) • a PLCs for developing pupils’ Welsh language skills in: Special schools • the Foundation Phase in English medium schools; • continuity and progression, KS3 in English medium secondary schools • primary and secondary coordinators and HOD forums

The five Chief Education Officers / Directors of Education of the South East Wales Consortium have been working across the authorities to develop shared education services including the support for the teaching of Welsh and Welsh Second Language. Since April 2013, the work to support the teaching of Welsh and Welsh Second Language has been delivered by the EAS Welsh in Education Support Team, led by the Systems Leader for Welsh and the Welsh in Education Support Team Leader. This model was developed by the SE Wales region following the full review of Welsh services across the five authorities during Winter 2012.

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Section 3: Commentary and further notes

This Welsh in Education Strategic Plan encompasses a three-year period, in which Local Authorities face many changes, including the move towards increased working through consortia and the delayed 21 st Century Schools funding programme. Therefore, this plan will evolve each year to reflect the changing education landscape and any constraints in capital funding to develop provision.

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Appendix 1: Number and percentage of pupils attending non-maintained Welsh-medium settings and funded non-maintained Welsh- medium settings which provide the Foundation Phase who transfer to Welsh-medium/bilingual schools

Name of Cylch Number of Percentage Number of Percentage Number of Percentage Notes Meithrin / Cylch Ti a children of pupils children of pupils children of pupils Fi /non-maintained transferring transferring transferring transferring transferring transferring Welsh-medium to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- medium medium medium medium medium medium childcare setting schools in schools in schools in schools in schools in schools in September September September September September September 2012 2012 2013 2013 2014 2014 There is no local Welsh-medium school in Tredegar. The Cylch has closed and a new setting, Tic Toc has opened in its place. The Mudiad Meithrin Ti a Fi officer is leading the Cylch Ti a Fi Tic Toc 0 0% 0 0% and is discussing progression to Cylch Meithrin and Welsh- medium education with parents. Mudiad Meithrin staff are also in discussion with Ysgol Bro Helyg to improve the transition. The main reason for this transition rate is the distance between the Cylch and the Welsh-medium primary school. A parents’ questionnaire has demonstrated that the main reason parents do not choose Welsh-medium primary education is they feel the school is too far for 3 year old children and no transport is Pobl Bach 6 19% 6 26% provided for children under age 5. The setting has now relocated and is now in the Deighton area. The Mudiad Meithrin Ti a Fi Officer is leading the Cylch Ti a Fi in Tredegar and promoting transition to the Cylch and to Welsh-medium education. Mudiad Meithrin staff are in discussions with the Council and Rhag regarding opening a new school in the area. Helyg Bychan 22 79% 27 93% Blaenau Gwent 28 41.2% 33 This is still an unregistered part-time setting and therefore not offering Foundation Phase. Caerphilly Parent Network will also be working in this area to undertand parental needs. There is no Welsh-medium primary school in the area. The Parc Waunfawr - - 1 8% 5 38% nearest Welsh-medium school has consistent take up. Mudiad Meithrin staff have collected information from parents regarding demand for Welsh-medium provision and is discussing this with the Local Authority.

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Name of Cylch Number of Percentage Number of Percentage Number of Percentage Notes Meithrin / Cylch Ti a children of pupils children of pupils children of pupils Fi /non-maintained transferring transferring transferring transferring transferring transferring Welsh-medium to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- medium medium medium medium medium medium childcare setting schools in schools in schools in schools in schools in schools in September September September September September September 2012 2012 2013 2013 2014 2014 The setting offers Early Years Education places. Caerphilly Parent Network will also be working in this area to undertand parental needs. Dewi Sant 3 8% 1 4% 3 9% There is no Welsh-medium primary school in Risca, children travel to Cwm Gwyddon. Mudiad Meithrin staff have collected information from parents regarding Welsh-medium provision and is discussing this with the Local Authority. The setting offers Early Years Education places. The school is the only pre-school provision in the area feeding 8 different schools, 4 Welsh and 4 English-medium. The nearest Welsh-medium primary school is 3 miles away. Cylch Meithrin Pontllanffraith 7 32% 20 42% 6 43% staff are working closely with the Cylch staff to promote Welsh- medium education and increase progression rates. Mudiad Meithrin is working closely with the Cylch to develop the relationship with the local Welsh-medium school. This setting does not offer Foundation Phase places. Pupils have to travel to reach the local Welsh-medium school. Mudiad Penpedairheol 5 38% 16 55% 14 78% Meithrin staff are working closely with the Cylch staff to promote Welsh-medium education and are monitoring the progression rates at the cylch. Llanbradach 12 50% 10 59% 11 65% This setting does not offer Foundation Phase places. Aberbargoed 123 10 59% 13 57% 9 75% This setting does not offer Foundation Phase places. Cwm Gwyddon 29 76% 36 75% 36 77% This setting does not offer Foundation Phase places. Coed Duon 12 92% 18 90% 12 71% The setting offers Early Years Education places. Rhymni 20 95% 19 90% 21 81% This setting does not offer Foundation Phase places. Yr Enfys 21 95% 14 82% 15 88% This setting does not offer Foundation Phase places. Cwm Derwen 20 100% 20 100% 14 93% The setting offers Early Years Education places. Ifor Bach 36 100% 25 100% 41 89% This setting does not offer Foundation Phase places. Nelson 19 100% 40 95% 20 95% The setting offers Early Years Education places. Penalltau 19 100% 39 100% 22 100% This setting does not offer Foundation Phase places. Tedi Twt Gilfach 18 100% 22 100% 18 100% This setting does not offer Foundation Phase places.

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Name of Cylch Number of Percentage Number of Percentage Number of Percentage Notes Meithrin / Cylch Ti a children of pupils children of pupils children of pupils Fi /non-maintained transferring transferring transferring transferring transferring transferring Welsh-medium to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- medium medium medium medium medium medium childcare setting schools in schools in schools in schools in schools in schools in September September September September September September 2012 2012 2013 2013 2014 2014 Fargoed Tonyfelin 27 100% 25 96% 21 91% The setting offers Early Years Education places. 2014 data shows an increase in transition rates although Caerphilly 258 73.5% 319 72% 268 75% overall number of children in settings has decreased

Y Fenni 20 77% 29 83%

Monmouthshire 20 77% 29 Somerton 1 6% 5 29% The setting is located on the site of an English-medium school. Y Delyn 19 100% 9 100% Newport 20 51.1% 14 The area is very disadbantaged and therefore the number of children attending is very low as parents find the price of care too high. The setting will become a Flying Start setting in 2015 and this will support parents to attend the setting. The setting has also moved and staff fluent in Welsh have been appointed.Mudiad Meithrin staff are working closely with the 0 0% 0 0% Garndiffaith setting to increase progression. Every parent will receive a progression package from Mudiad Meithrin provding important messages regarding Welsh mediujm education progression. The staff at the settings will also distribute an information and training pack regarding how to hold discussions to promote progression with parents. The setting has moved and is now meeting at a new building that’s closer to Ysgol Gymraeg Bryn Onnen in Blaenavon. The setting also provides wraparound care for the school which will increase progression to the Welsh-medium school. Mudiad Abersychan 11 48% 14 100% Meithrin staff are working closely with the setting to increase progression. Every parent will receive a progression package from Mudiad Meithrin provding important messages regarding Welsh mediujm education progression. The staff at the settings

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Name of Cylch Number of Percentage Number of Percentage Number of Percentage Notes Meithrin / Cylch Ti a children of pupils children of pupils children of pupils Fi /non-maintained transferring transferring transferring transferring transferring transferring Welsh-medium to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- to Welsh- medium medium medium medium medium medium childcare setting schools in schools in schools in schools in schools in schools in September September September September September September 2012 2012 2013 2013 2014 2014 will also distribute an information and training pack regarding how to hold discussions to promote progression with parents. Cwmbran 17 100% 24 96% Pontypwl 35 100% 22 100% Torfaen 63 77.8% 60

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Appendix 2: Number and percentage of pupils in Welsh-medium and bilingual primary schools transferring to Welsh-medium secondary schools

Total number of Year 6 pupils in Total number of Year 6 pupils Percentage of Year 6 pupils Welsh-medium and bilingual primary transferring to Welsh- transferring to Welsh-medium schools 2012/13 medium/bilingual secondary or bilingual secondary schools 2013/14 schools 2013/14 Blaenau Gwent 25 25 100% Caerphilly 257 257 100% Monmouthshire 23 22 95.7% Newport 59 57 96.6% Torfaen 69 68 99.5% South East Wales 433 429 99.1%

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Appendix 3: Attainment and performance in Welsh Second Language

Year: 2013

Key Stage 2

Percentage of Percentage of pupils Teacher assessment in Welsh Second Number of Year 6 pupils assessed assessed Language at the end of Key Stage 2 Year 6 pupils in Welsh second achieving Level 4+ language Blaenau Gwent 688 95% 71% Caerphilly 1946 84%* 65% * Monmouthshire 844 97% 76% Newport 1638 96% 79% Torfaen 971 93% 77% South East Wales 6087 92% 73%

* Results not submitted by 2 Caerphilly English-medium primary schools

Key Stage 3

Percentage of Percentage of pupils Teacher assessment in Welsh Second Number of Year 9 pupils assessed assessed Language at the end of Key Stage 3 Year 9 pupils in Welsh second achieving Level 5+ language Blaenau Gwent 690 100% 73% Caerphilly 2076 89% 68% Monmouthshire 809 100% 75% Newport 1640 100% 75% Torfaen 1224 85% 77% South East Wales 6439 93% 73%

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Appendix 4: List of statutory consultees

A local authority must consult the following on the Plan in draft:

Section 84 of the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013:

• neighbouring local authorities • the head teacher of each school maintained by it • the governing body of each school maintained by it • each institution within the further education sector in its area • in relation to any foundation or voluntary school in its area – o the person who appoints the foundation governors o if the school has a religious character, the appropriate religious body • other prescribed persons.

“Other prescribed persons” are listed in Regulation 9:

• the Welsh Language Commissioner • the Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership • school councils • Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales • such organisations providing services to children and young people as the local authority considers appropriate • such other persons or bodies as appear to the local authority to be appropriate.

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Appendix 5: Partneriaeth Chwech Strategic Action Plan

PARTNERIAETH%206 %20STRATEGIC%20PLAN%20%202013-2017%20SAESNEG.doc

Appendix 6: Cynllun Cau’r Bwlch 2013-14 action plan

Cynllun%20Cau'r%20 bwlch%202013-2014%20gweithredol%20Saesneg.docx

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