Children's experiences confirm lack of Welsh-medium lessons

A survey during the Urdd Eisteddfod of children's and young people's experience of swimming lessons has confirmed that not enough children and young people across Wales are able to receive swimming lessons through the medium of Welsh. 

In March, Cymdeithas yr Iaith published research showing the continued failure of local authorities and some related organisations across the country to offer and deliver swimming lessons through the medium of Welsh, despite clear rights established by Welsh Language Standards since 2016. Cymdeithas has submitted a formal complaint to the Welsh Language Commissioner regarding the matter, and has called on her to use her enforcement powers to guarantee the right of all children and young people in Wales to Welsh-medium provision. 

During the Urdd Eisteddfod Cymdeithas carried out a survey by collecting the personal experiences of Welsh children from swimming lessons. Those who receive swimming lessons were asked to put a ball in a small swimming pool, with the colour of the ball corresponding to the language of the lessons they receive. The results show an inconsistent picture across Wales, in many areas access to Welsh swimming lessons is dependent on the availability of staff, the choice of lessons is more limited and some areas do not provide them at all.

Siân Howys, deputy-chair of Cymdeithas yr Iaith responsible for campaigns, said: 

"The experiences we have heard from children and young people confirm our research work, namely that not enough of them receive swimming lessons through the medium of Welsh. The results show an inconsistent picture across Wales, with some areas not providing Welsh lessons at all. Considering that it has been ten years since the Welsh Language Standards came into force, this is unacceptable. 

"Swimming is an essential life skill, and there is little point, in our opinion, in telling children to 'use their Welsh' when the opportunities that should be available to them to do so are not there.

"We are calling on the Welsh Language Commissioner to use her enforcement powers and ensure the rights of Welsh children and young people to the Welsh language. We cannot afford any more excuses and further delays."