Ysgol Nantgwyn visit to help design a school curriculum which meets the diverse needs of its pupils with a focus on wellbeing and new ways to deliver education

Tracy Mein, Deputy Headteacher at Ysgol Nantgwyn in Tonypandy, applied for Taith funding in 2023 with the aim of designing a school curriculum which meets the diverse needs of its pupils and to enable them to become be confident, successful lifelong learners.

Thirty pupils from Year 7, along with four members of staff, took part in the Taith international exchange to Iceland in February 2024.

“The Taith project provided a once in a lifetime opportunity for our pupils to travel to Iceland and be immersed in a different culture.  It was the first time abroad for some of our pupils, they had a fantastic time, and a really valuable experience in a place that’s so different to Wales. It was snowing when we were there and minus 16 degrees one day. Very different, but a fantastic experience for everyone. It was fantastic to see the confidence of our pupils growing throughout the visit. They quickly established friendships with the students they met in the Icelandic school and were curious about how their school life was different to their own. Pupils have become more independent since the trip and have developed their resilience.  Teachers were in awe of pupils as they were confident enough to make new friends, become immersed in a typical day at an Icelandic school and try new foods. This visit provided a life changing opportunity for many of our pupils and one that they will never forget. We would not hesitate to recommend that other schools apply for a Taith project.”

On their return the pupils shared what they’d learnt and experienced during their time in Iceland, and the impact this has had on their school already.