The Vale of Glamorgan schools have once again demonstrated their exceptional talent and dedication at the 2024 Urdd National Eisteddfod, a Welsh language festival that showcases the skills of young people across various artistic disciplines. This year's event, held in Meifod, Powys, during the half-term break, witnessed a record-breaking 100,454 children and young people registering to compete in over 400 competitions, with more Welsh learners participating than ever before.
Among the many accomplished performers, pupils from Ysgol Sant Baruc, Ysgol Pen Y Garth, Ysgol Sant Curig, Ysgol Bro Morgannwg, and Llantwit Major Secondary School stood out, placing highly in a range of categories. Ewan James Baker, a student from Ysgol Sant Curig, secured the first-place prize for Guitar Solo Years 6 and under, while his schoolmates were awarded second place in the Band / Individual Artists category for primary school-aged pupils.
Ysgol Sant Baruc pupils also made their mark, coming second in the Instrumental Ensemble Years 6 and under category, while Ysgol Pen Y Garth students snapped up second place in the Creative Dance category. These achievements highlight the diverse talents nurtured within the Vale of Glamorgan schools.
Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg, in particular, excelled in a range of solo and group events during the festival. Eleanor Rose Baker, a pupil from the school, claimed the top spot in the Guitar Solo Years 7, 8, and 9 category, while her peer Stephanie Angela Maurer secured first place in the Guitar Solo Years 10 and above and under 19-years-old category. The school's SATB choir also impressed, earning second place in the Year 13 and under category.
Bro Morgannwg pupils continued to shine, taking home the gold in both the Instrumental Ensemble Years 7, 8, and 9 and Multimedia Dance Year 7 to under 25-years-old categories. These victories demonstrate the school's commitment to fostering artistic excellence across various age groups.
Llantwit Major High School also made its presence felt, with pupil Daisy Grace Jones earning first place in the Woodwind Solo Year 10 to under 19-years-old competition, further showcasing the depth of musical talent within the Vale of Glamorgan schools.
In addition to the individual and group successes, pupils from Ysgol Iolo Morganwg in Cowbridge had the unique opportunity to perform alongside Ian 'H' Watkins, a member of the popular band Steps. Watkins, who established Cowbridge Pride three years ago, invited Iolo Morgannwg pupils to co-write the song "Bydd yn ti dy hun", Be Yourself, with Welsh singer Caryl Parry Jones. The song, which focuses on kindness and self-acceptance, was performed by Iolo Morgannwg pupils alongside their peers from Ysgol Ponardwe in Neath Port Talbot, where next year's festival will be held.
Paula Ham, Director of Learning and Skills for the Vale of Glamorgan Council, expressed her delight at the outstanding achievements of Vale pupils at the Urdd Eisteddfod. She emphasized the festival's significance in celebrating Welsh language, culture, and talent, and commended the young people for their success in a record-breaking year. Ham congratulated all participating schools, encouraging them to take pride in their accomplishments.
