We understand that new arrivals often want to improve their education whilst they are here. This section of the website explains the education system in Wales and who is eligible for support.
Education is free in local authority managed schools in Wales. Parents and carers have a legal duty to make sure their children attend school. It is a criminal offence to keep your children away from school for no reason. You can register your child for school with your local authority. Find out more on the ‘Your Local Area’ page.
Children between the ages of 5 and 11 will attend primary school. Between 11 and 16 children will attend secondary or high school. At the end of secondary school, children will sit GCSE exams. There is a lot of support available in Welsh schools. These include support for newly arrived children who are learning English or Welsh as a second language. School-based counsellors are available to help children who may be upset, worried or confused. Free breakfast and lunch options are often available in schools. If you live far enough away from school, free school transport may be provided. Children are able to leave school at age 16 but Further Education is strongly encouraged. There are a range of options for Further Education study. These include college and apprenticeships. Often enrolling at University will involve previous study at a college.
The Welsh Government also funds ‘English for Speakers of Other Languages’ (ESOL) courses. These are set up to help new arrivals to learn English. These courses are often free and can be delivered in many areas across Wales. Education in Wales may be delivered by English or Welsh language. All children in Wales are have the opportunity to learn some Welsh, even in an English medium school. Many public services must be delivered in the Welsh language. The Welsh Government funds optional support for your child’s early years. When a child reaches their third birthday they are eligible for free part-time nursery care. The Flying Start service offers childcare, heath support, parenting support and language support.
You can also choose Welsh medium education for your child. This type of education helps your child to speak Welsh and English with confidence. Your child can enjoy learning, playing and living life in both languages.
Research shows that children do very well with two (or more!) languages, and that children learn new languages easily.
Watch this short video (in English) for more information:
Thinking about Welsh medium education for your child? – Dropbox
If your child is already age 7 or over, you can still send them to a Welsh medium school. There is support available called late immersion education. This is an intensive Welsh language learning programme for learners. It will provide support for your child to learn language skills quickly.
Late immersion education is available across Wales. Get in touch with your local authority for more details about Welsh medium education or late immersion provision in your area. You and your child will receive a warm welcome.
Y Ganolfan Dysgu Cymraeg – The National Centre for Learning Welsh
Enjoy Learning Welsh
The Croeso i Bawb/Everyone is Welcome scheme is run by the National Centre for Learning Welsh. It has a number of free resources that introduce Wales and the Welsh Language to those who are new to Wales. The Scheme offers self-study taster courses in a variety of different languages. These languages include Arabic, Pashto and Dari. Free Welsh Language lessons are also available for refugees and asylum seekers. These lessons are available through the National Centre.
Mentrau Iaith / Urdd
Children can join clubs like the Urdd or Menter Iaith to practice their Welsh while having fun.
The Urdd runs clubs and camps across Wales. Children can take part in sports, arts, and competitions. There is also the Urdd Eisteddfod, a big festival where children can perform and celebrate Welsh culture.
Each area in Wales also has a Menter Iaith. They organise family fun days, parent clubs, story time and other activities. Here, parents and children can learn a little Welsh in a supportive environment. Some of the groups offer Welsh playtime and after-school clubs. Some groups have music sessions or sports activities in Welsh.