🚨 Big Concerns in Welsh Schools! 🚨
Education Minister Lynne Neagle is sounding the alarm on a major issue impacting schools in Wales. The number of Welsh medium teachers is at a standstill, which worries her deeply as it challenges the Welsh Government’s aspirations.
🔍 The Numbers:
Recent data reveals a troubling trend: 396 Welsh-speaking teachers were trained in 2022-23, while 395 left the profession. Additionally, 20% of PGCE students aiming to teach in Welsh secondary schools dropped out in 2023/24.
🏫 Recruitment Struggles:
Welsh medium teaching vacancies receive much fewer applications compared to their English counterparts, especially in rural areas like Ceredigion and Powys. This is a major concern given the goal for one million Welsh speakers by 2050.
💡 What’s Being Done?
Millions are being invested to encourage teens to choose A level Welsh and to enter Welsh medium teacher training. There’s also a bursary scheme aiming to boost teacher numbers. The plan includes a whopping £1.45m to reinvigorate A level Welsh studies—a potential breeding ground for future educators.
🌍 Not Just a Local Issue:
This isn’t just a Welsh issue; England and other parts of the world face similar challenges in teacher recruitment and retention. Neagle stresses the need not only for Welsh medium schools but also for educators in rural and economically deprived areas.
Let’s keep our fingers crossed for improvements in this crucial area! 📚✨
What are your thoughts on this? Are you concerned too? Share your comments below! 👇