New vintage shop to open in Penarth after volunteer effort

Hubbub, launching in Penarth this September, will serve as a retail training facility for current and former pupils of Ysgol y Deri with additional learning needs.

Developed by Stacey Long, the school’s post-16 transition lead, the project was inspired by the fact that only four per cent of adults with additional learning needs in Wales are in paid employment.

Ms Long said: "We have a lot of exciting plans, including a launch party in September, where we’ll want to bring the Penarth community together to thank them for their support.

"Every little bit of support will help in providing opportunities for our pupils, so they get the equal career opportunities they deserve.

"We are also seeking local makers to rent shelves for their products as well as any sponsorships from the local community.

"Hubbub will be a self-funded project, so we will be partly reliant on grants, donations and kindness of others."

The shop will provide hands-on retail experience as part of the sixth form curriculum, helping students develop practical skills in a real-world setting.

What sets Hubbub apart is that it will be run by the students themselves.

Earlier this year, Ysgol y Deri’s sixth formers raised £25,000 for a new minibus to travel to work placements, and their next target is to raise £5,000 to make the shop front accessible for all.

The shop has already benefitted from strong community backing.

A group of businesses and organisations, including Morgan Sindall, CS Flooring, Ian Williams Carpentry, Whiteheads Building Services, and Vale of Glamorgan Council, volunteered time and resources to transform the retail space.

Ms Long said: "It’s been incredible to see so many people come together for such a meaningful cause.

"The generosity and enthusiasm from our volunteers has made a real difference, and the learners are already excited about what’s to come."

Cllr Rhiannon Birch, cabinet member for education, arts and the Welsh language, said: "This project is a shining example of what can be achieved when our community comes together."