Abertillery Learning Community has extended a warm Welsh welcome to an international delegation from Nigeria as part of its Taith mobility partnership.
The visiting group includes two teachers and four pupils representing two schools, one from Lagos and one from Abuja. During their stay, the delegation is being hosted locally in Blaina and is spending time across the Learning Community’s campuses.
The exchange supports the Curriculum for Wales by giving learners meaningful opportunities to develop as ethical, informed citizens of Wales and the wider world. Through shared learning, cultural exchange and collaboration, pupils are gaining first-hand experience of global citizenship in action.
Pupils from the Learning Community are taking part in culture-sharing and question-and-answer sessions with the visitors, while the school’s Global Girl Leading team is working closely with the delegation throughout the visit.
A key part of the programme is a collaborative project exploring the shared history of coal mining, supported by guest researcher Myya Helm. The project connects Welsh heritage with global narratives and encourages pupils to consider the links between communities across countries and cultures.
The programme also showcases the rich history, community spirit and natural beauty of Wales, with visits and activities designed to give the delegation an authentic experience of local culture and heritage.
The itinerary included:
- Visits to the iconic Guardian, the historic Big Pit, and Cwmtillery Lakes
- A trip to Cardiff to experience the hustle, bustle, and history of the capital city
- Experiencing culinary tradition, learning the art of baking perfect Welsh cakes and preparing a traditional Cawl
- Diving into Welsh language learning alongside pupils
The visitors arrived to a special welcome event at the school, where the delegation experienced a celebration of Welsh culture, including singing by pupils.
Headteacher Tracy Jarvis said:
“It has been a real privilege to welcome our Taith partners from Nigeria to Abertillery Learning Community. This visit is giving our learners a valuable opportunity to share their own culture and heritage while learning from others, helping them to grow as confident, curious and globally minded young people. We are incredibly proud of the warmth, enthusiasm and respect shown by our pupils and staff throughout the visit.”
Councillor Sue Edmunds, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families commented:
“This international visit is a wonderful example of how schools in °¬˛ćAƬ are helping learners to broaden their horizons, celebrate their own heritage and develop a deeper understanding of the wider world. We are pleased to support opportunities that strengthen global connections while showcasing the warmth, culture and community spirit of °¬˛ćAƬ.”