Ffion celebrates remarkable Welsh language journey

In just six months, nine-year-old Ffion, a pupil at Ysgol Melin Gruffydd in Whitchurch, has transformed from a non-Welsh speaker to one of the top three Welsh learners in Wales.

Her success is partly thanks to the support and dedication of the Welsh-language immersion unit, Uned Drochi Iaith Caerdydd.

Ffion - third place in national final

Ffion joined the unit in November 2024. Having not spoken Welsh before and with no Welsh spoken at home and no prior experience of the Urdd Eisteddfod, she began attending the unit four days a week, with an additional day at Ysgol Melin Gruffydd. By January 2025, she was preparing for her first Eisteddfod competition.

Her rapid progress was extraordinary, and in March, she won first place representing Cardiff schools in the Gylch round for her recital of Mewn Siop Anifeiliaid Anwes by poet Myrddin ap Dafydd. 

The following month, she triumphed again at the Sir round at Cardiff University, competing against schools from across Cardiff and the Vale. In the national final at the Urdd Eisteddfod, Ffion placed third out of 19 participants - an incredible achievement for someone who had only been learning Welsh for half a year.

Uned Drochi Iaith Caerdydd has supported nearly 500 children and young people since 2010. The unit provides a welcoming, inclusive environment for learners of all backgrounds, helping them gain the language skills needed to thrive in Welsh-medium education and feel a sense of belonging in their communities.

Reflecting on her experience, Ffion said: "On my first day in the Uned Drochi I had no clue what any of the teachers were saying! Now I'm translating whole reading books to my family.

"The Eisteddfod was one of the best experiences of my life. Thank you to everyone that helped me to get onto that stage and perform - especially my friends at Ysgol Melin Gruffydd. I can't believe that in such little time I have been able to do so many amazing things. Without the Uned Drochi none of this would be possible. I am so happy I can now speak Welsh."

Ffion has now left the unit and is attending Ysgol Melin Gruffydd full-time.

Cardiff Council's deputy leader and cabinet member for education, Sarah Merry said: "Ffion's incredible journey from a non-Welsh speaker to a national Eisteddfod finalist in just six months is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of Welsh-medium education".

Estyn noted in its thematic report on Welsh immersion education, Uned Drochi Iaith's work is exemplary, offering valuable guidance and resources to schools across Wales.

For more information about Uned Drochi Iaith Caerdydd please visit https://www.trochiiaith.co.uk