Welsh Language Scheme

The Assembly’s promotion of bilingualism via the National Action Plan ‘Iaith Pawb’ coupled with only 8% of the town’s working age population speaking Welsh provides a strong case for research into the need for increased provision of Welsh language skills and the provision of training through the medium of Welsh. The number of Welsh Speakers in Merthyr Tydfil is 5,532. Research will be undertaken as part of the ongoing process of implementation. Aims and Objectives:

The College’s Strategic Aim 1 Objective E consists of the following from the Strategic Plan 2003-2006:

To continue to develop an effective framework for the delivery of Welsh learning opportunities, provision and facilities:

By keeping under review the qualifications offered to Welsh learners directly by the College and through the third party arrangements, thus ensuring a balanced curriculum offer.

By participating in the work of the Welsh for Adults Consortium and negotiating to ensure the best interests of the College and its learners and ensuring best use is made of the funding allocated to programme management.

By sustaining Welsh medium learning resources, by maintaining where appropriate, a policy of bilingual communications.

By exploring the potential market for work-based Welsh provision in Merthyr Tydfil.

By continuing to make provision for bilingual marketing materials, where appropriate.

By developing a Welsh Language Scheme in response to the Welsh Language Act.

The College endeavours to enhance its links with agencies which can provide assistance with regards to the Welsh Language Plan. Head of Student Services is part of the South East Wales Welsh Language Group and has attended information sessions with Sgiliaith. Merthyr Tydfil College will also work on an ever closer basis with University of Glamorgan in terms of Welsh Language development to provide a cost effective and quality service to its customer base. Download the full policy.