In our #BabyStepsIntoWelsh podcast series, likeable presenter Nia Parry has been talking with families about their anxieties, questions and experiences of Welsh-medium education. You can listen to and follow the series here: www.podfollow.com/babysteps
In the first chapter, Nia spoke with Sean Fletcher, presenter of popular shows such as Good Morning Britain and Coast & Country, and his wife, Luned Tonderai, a director of successful shows such as Gogglebox.
Sean Fletcher said, “Giving our children the gift of Welsh was a no brainer for us. I saw it as important that I learn the language alongside them, in order to be able to help them.”
Culture, identity and a sense of belonging are very important to Sean Fletcher. During his chat with Nia, we heard how, on his wedding day, he promised his father-in-law that he would learn Welsh. After that, there as no turning back! Sean is now fluent in Welsh, and our presenter, Nia Parry, was part of that journey!
“The Cylch Meithrin is a vital part of Welsh-medium education.” said Sean Fletcher.
We heard why Sean and Luned are big fans of the Cylch Meithrin, and why they feel that starting there is essential to children and their families. In their opinion, the support offered by Cylchoedd Meithrin to bilingual and non-Welsh speaking families is invaluable, and they share with us why they encourage families who don’t speak the language to give it a go.
Luned Tonderai says, “I was raised in Wales, in a family of Welsh speakers. The language is part of the children’s heritage, and it allows them to be closer to my family. That connection, that relationship, is so important.”
Having gone to the Cylch Meithrin and started school in Wales, Sean and Luned’s children Reuben and Lilly were young when they moved down to London with their parents. We heard about the welcome extended to them by the London Welsh school, and how Welsh families there are passionate about Welsh-medium education – perhaps even more so than families here in Wales?!
Luned Tonderai advises, “If you don’t speak Welsh, speak to families who’ve chosen Welsh-medium education and you’ll see that there’s nothing to be worried about. The Welsh language is a very special gift to give to your children.”
Talking with Nia, it is abundantly clear that Sean and Luned are very proud of their children’s bilingualism, and take pride in the fact that the children continue to communicate in Welsh and use the language in Wales and London. We heard how speaking Welsh has opened doors for Sean in his career as a television presenter, and his great advice to parents who are considering learning Welsh with their children.
You can listen to the full conversation here: www.podfollow.com/babysteps . Remember to share with other families who are trying to decide which path they want their children’s education to follow.