Welsh-language nursery opens (From Penarth Times)

Welsh-language nursery opens

A 5,000 National Lottery grant has helped a Penarth group to set up a new Welsh-speaking nursery in the town.

The Cylch Meithrin Bethel nursery, situated in the newly rebuilt Bethel Chapel in Plassey Street, was officially opened last week by the Town Mayor of Penarth, Charles Curran.

The nursery will benefit from state-of-the-art computer equipment and plasma-screen TV.

The start-up funding came from the fund's Awards for All scheme.

Nursery organiser Emma Berry said: "Many children come from non Welsh-speaking backgrounds, so it gives them a headstart in their education before they move on to their school nursery.

"Research has shown that children who understand more than one language are able to think more flexibly and creatively.

"It also enables children to experience two different cultures and to participate in unique Welsh events such as the Eisteddfod."

The nursery uses the medium of Welsh for group games and singing.

Emma added: "Children pick up phrases very quickly at that age, and after a full year they are able to hold conversations in Welsh."

Children can start at the nursery at the age of two and a half years and can attend for two years if they wish.

Some will combine sessions there with others at the nursery unit of Ysgol Pen y Garth.

The nursery is regulated by the Association of Welsh Nursery Schools.

All staff have to achieve the CACHE qualification, which stands for Council for Awards in Children's Care and Education.