Scheme opens to boost numbers of Welsh speaking teachers

A programme aimed at attracting Welsh-speaking teachers to secondary schools in Wales has now opened for applications.

Called Cynllun Pontio, the programme supports Welsh speakers who are currently teaching in primary schools in Wales, teachers in schools outside Wales, and teachers who have been out of the profession for five years or more, to become secondary school teachers in Welsh-medium schools.

Opening on Monday 10 February and closing three weeks later on 2 March, the popular scheme has been running since 2020 and has helped many primary teachers convert to teach in secondary schools – with benefits to both the individuals and the wider sector.

The Cabinet Secretary for Education Lynne Neagle said: "This successful scheme is one of the ways in which we are developing  a talented teaching workforce in Wales, especially in our secondary schools.

"I am determined to ensure we support learners to reach their potential and continue to raise standards.

"Developing a teaching workforce to teach Welsh, and deliver education through the medium of Welsh, is essential in creating more Welsh speakers. It is key to the implementation of the Welsh Language and Education (Wales) Bill."

The Cynllun Pontio is one of a number of initiatives, backed by £8m of Welsh Government funding, to support practitioners to develop their Welsh language skills and to increase the number of Welsh medium teachers and teaching assistants.

The funding also includes a £5,000 retention bursary for eligible secondary teachers who teach Welsh or through the medium of Welsh, and funding to increase the number of learners studying Welsh at A Level, enabling schools to continue to provide Welsh as a subject when learner numbers are low.