The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) and the National Centre for Learning Welsh have announced that a Learn Welsh resource has been added to the skills section of the Award.
The new resource has been created especially for applicants to the Award, a voluntary programme for young people, to give individuals the opportunity to develop Welsh language skills and learn more about Welsh culture.
The Centre has developed the resource, which includes 13 units that combine online self-study with practical tasks. The units introduce words, phrases and language patterns, following themes such as Welsh music and culture.
The development is part of the Centre's provision for young people aged 16-25. This age group can follow a Learn Welsh course for free, with specific courses and resources available. The Centre's 'Tutors of Tomorrow' scheme attracts young talents to the sector, and there are opportunities to learn the language in the workplace, in universities and colleges, and in the community.
Dona Lewis, Chief Executive of the National Centre for Learning Welsh, said, "Learning a new skill gives you confidence and opens the door to a world of possibilities, and that is true when learning the Welsh language - it is an opportunity to meet new friends, develop different interests and expand work options.
"Our aim is to create new opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy learning and speaking Welsh, and we’re very pleased to be working with the DofE, to help attract new audiences to the language."
Stephanie Price, DofE Wales Director added, “We are delighted to be able to offer this new free skill section resource to DofE participants who want to learn more about Wales and the Welsh language.
“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is dedicated to helping young people develop the skills and confidence needed to thrive in their futures, and this resource is a fantastic addition to the opportunities available to DofE participants.”
Pictured, from left to right: Meinir Ebbsworth, Director of Strategy at the National Centre for Learning Welsh; Dylan from Cardiff, a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award ambassador, who’s learning Welsh and who’s following the new Learn Welsh skill; and Stephanie Price, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Wales Director.