Welsh pupils learning to be decision makers of the future launch own school parliament

Published 16/01/2018   |   Last Updated 19/01/2018

A Cardiff school has come up with an innovative way of introducing its pupils to the concept of democracy and decision-making, by setting up its own parliament.

Ysgol y Wern in Llanishen has brought together representatives from its School Council, Eco Council, School Ambassadors, Digital Group and Welsh Language Group to create a School Cabinet called Senedd y Wern.

Pupils visited the Senedd in Cardiff Bay on Tuesday, 16 January where they met Julie Morgan, Assembly Member for Cardiff North, and Llywydd of the National Assembly for Wales, Elin Jones AM, who asked the children about their priorities which included the environment and the Welsh language.

Mrs Moira Kellaway, Head of Ysgol y Wern said: "In a demanding world Ysgol y Wern aims to provide its young people with the relevant skills so they can reach their full potential.

"Our school senedd brings together for the first time students who are working on issues such as digital technology, the environment and Welsh Language in a forum that will allow them to discuss similar issues to those debated in our National Assembly".

Elin Jones, Llywydd of the National Assembly for Wales said:

"Working with and listening to the concerns of young people is a key part of the National Assembly's role, and I am delighted that Ysgol y Wern has come up with this innovative way to equip their pupils with the skills to be able to shape the Wales of the future.

"The Assembly hosts or visits hundreds of schools each year, and later this year will formally launch the Youth Parliament after consultation with thousands of young people as well as representative organisations."​