In Gwynedd and Anglesey, the Children’s University became something that communities celebrated. In a part of North Wales where language, landscape and identity are closely connected, schools embraced the programme as a way to recognise learning beyond the classroom and to honour children for the curiosity, commitment and confidence they developed throughout the year.
Welsh medium schools at the heart of the programme
Welsh medium schools were central to this celebration. In 2023 to 2024, the programme included seven Welsh medium schools on Anglesey (five primary and two secondary) and three Welsh medium schools in Gwynedd (two primary and one secondary). For participating schools, the Children’s University was not simply an extra activity. It was a way to value and highlight learning that already exists within local communities, including heritage, creativity, outdoor experiences, and the Welsh language itself.
Creating opportunity across rural communities
Geography shaped how the programme was experienced. In more rural areas, distance and travel can limit access to extracurricular opportunities. Schools often became the hub for Children’s University activity, creating provision after the school day and making participation possible for children who might otherwise have fewer local options. Teachers and partners worked creatively to bring opportunities to pupils and to reduce barriers linked to transport and cost.
Across the wider North Wales programme, children recorded their activities through Children’s University Online. They built up their passports by taking part in learning across themes such as arts and culture, nature and the environment, outdoor learning, sport, literacy, practical life skills, and mental health and wellbeing. In Gwynedd and Anglesey, that breadth supported schools to shape experiences that were rooted in local identity while also opening new horizons.
A graduation day to remember at Pontio
The year culminated in a shared Gwynedd and Anglesey graduation ceremony at Pontio in Bangor. The ceremony carried a strong sense of pride. Young people walked on stage in caps and gowns, received certificates recognising the hours they had completed in extracurricular activities, and were celebrated by families and school communities. For many, it was a first experience of a graduation style event, and it created memories that families will carry with them.
The celebration also included a powerful performance from Colin Diamond of Bloco Swn Drums, joined by talented students from Ysgol Bro Lleu, who delivered an electrifying drumming piece that added an extra special touch to the ceremony.
A moment that captured the spirit of Children’s University
One moment captured the spirit of the programme particularly well. Children from Ysgol Llandegfan, Anglesey, performed the Children’s University Anthem, a song they composed with the Welsh Whisperer during his visit to their school. Seeing the children enjoy the stage and sing to a full audience brought energy and confidence into the room. It was a powerful reminder of what the Children’s University can make possible when children are given a platform and encouraged to shine.
Celebrating together after the ceremony
After the stage moments and applause, the celebration continued beyond the ceremony. Parents and children shared food together, took photographs, and spent time enjoying the occasion. Circo Arts brought additional excitement by demonstrating circus skills and inviting young people to take part and try new things. This helped to create a joyful atmosphere and reinforced the message that learning can be both meaningful and fun.
A shared celebration of identity and achievement
In Gwynedd and Anglesey, the Children’s University became a celebration of identity, belonging and achievement. It recognised children for their effort, supported families to share in that pride, and demonstrated the value of learning that happens beyond the classroom.
You can watch a short video from the Gwynedd and Anglesey graduation at Pontio in Bangor here: https://youtu.be/99VN3702NcE?si=codvJKiipTw235kS