A host of events have been taking place across Caerphilly County Borough as part of Adult Learners’ Week.
Organised by the adult learning organisation NIACE Dysgu Cymru and supported by the Welsh Government and European Social Fund.
Hundreds of courses are being showcased at local events. This includes anything from archaeology and blogging to Welsh and yoga. Many courses offer work-related or job-hunting skills while others focus on healthy living or personal development.
For more information on events running this week call 0800 100 900 or visit www.yourfuturechoiceaction.org.uk.
Ystrad Mynach College duo honoured for 80 years in adult learning
Two members of staff from The College Ystrad Mynach, who have spent a combined total of 80 years empowering adults through learning have been recognised with prestigious national awards.
Both Bryn Davies and Rhos Griffiths were honoured in the annual Inspire! Adult Learning Awards held to mark the start of Adult Learners’ Week.
Mr Davies, who is college principal, received the Services to Lifelong Learning Award, while community learning officer Rhos won the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Founded in 1959, The College Ystrad Mynach includes campuses in Ystrad Mynach, Rhymney, Aber Valley, Bargoed, Blackwood, Caerphilly and Tredomen and currently has learners ranging from teenagers to those in their eighties.
In August The College Ystrad Mynach will merge with Coleg Morgannwg to form Coleg Y Cymoedd, meaning College of the Valleys, which will serve more than 25,000 learners.
Originally from London, Mr Davies has worked in adult and community education roles all over the UK, and, up until this year, chaired NIACE Dysgu Cymru, the national body behind Adult Learners’ Week. Bryn became principal in 1997.
Reflecting on the role of the college Mr Davies said: “Setting it up was a vote of confidence in the people of Rhymney and they’re very proud of it. Colleges give a second chance to a whole variety of people and I find it fascinating when people tell me the positive impact that education has had on their lives. We’ve had adults come to us with poor basic English and Maths capabilities because they weren’t successful in school, who have gone on to university studying from archaeology to business studies.
“I’m pleased with the recognition that this Inspire! Award gives, not just for myself, but for the staff at The College. I would also like to thank the team at NIACE Dysgu Cymru who have given me great ideas to put into practice. I’ve also very much enjoyed working with members of Caerphilly Borough Council to improve the potential of people in the borough.”