Key interests and
achievements
Vikki’s political interests
include education; environmental issues; rural affairs; energy; planning;
transport and the economy; tackling poverty; community regeneration; and
heritage and culture.
Personal history
Born and raised in Aberdare,
Vikki was educated at St John Baptist Church in Wales High School, before
attending the University of Wales, Cardiff, where she gained a bachelor’s
degree in International and Welsh History, and a master’s degree in Modern Welsh
History. Whilst studying at Cardiff, Vikki received the Charles Morgan award in
recognition of her contribution to the field of Welsh History.
Professional background
Vikki worked as a History
teacher at St Cenydd Community School, Caerphilly, from 2000 to 2016, where she
also undertook a range of pastoral roles, most recently serving as Assistant
Head of Sixth Form. Vikki has also worked as a mentor for trainee teachers and
has sat on the admissions panel for the History PGCE course at the University
of Wales Trinity Saint David.
Political history
Vikki joined the Labour Party
at the age of 17 and has undertaken many roles within her Constituency,
including Women’s Officer and CLP Chair. Vikki was MS for Cynon Valley 2016-26
and has represented Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr since 2026. Vikki was elected to
Chair the Welsh Labour Group of Senedd Members 2017-24, chaired the Standards
of Conduct Committee 2021-24 and served as Minister for Further and Higher
Education 2024-26. Vikki currently serves as Chief Whip of the Labour Group and
as party spokesperson on Environment, Rural Affairs, Energy and Transport.
