Merthyr Tydfil Learners Shine Bright at the 2025 Urdd Eisteddfod!

Young learners from across Merthyr Tydfil have triumphed at Europe’s largest travelling youth festival, the Urdd Eisteddfod, held this year in the scenic Margam Park, Neath Port Talbot. During half term, the Welsh language and culture took centre stage, and Merthyr’s young talent truly stole the spotlight.

Schools such as Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Santes Tudful, Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Rhyd y Grug, Gellifaelog Primary School, Ysgol y Graig Primary School, Abercanaid Community School, Pantysgallog Primary School, Greenfields School, Troedyrhiw Primary School, Cyfarthfa High School, and Afon Taf High School were proudly represented in the tough Cymoedd Morgannwg preliminary rounds.

Competitions ranged from arts and crafts, musical performances (choir, piano, harp), and poetry recitations to high-energy disco/street dancing – all showcasing the learners’ incredible talent and their passion for the Welsh language.

After battling through a series of tough preliminary rounds, learners from schools across the borough – including both Welsh and English medium settings – reached the national stage of this prestigious event. Among the standout achievements:

Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Santes Tudful wowed the judges and audiences alike, securing:

• 2nd Place in the Scene Performance (Year 6 and under) – out of 17 schools from across Wales!
• 2nd Place in Hip Hop/Street/Disco Dancing (Year 6 and under) – competing against 18 other dancers!

Pantysgallog Primary School impressed with a top 3 finish in the Choir for Welsh Learners, performing in front of a crowd of over 500 people – and even featured on S4C’s Eisteddfod coverage!

These achievements are a testament not just to the exceptional ability of the learners, but also to their unwavering determination, pride, and cultural spirit. Every participant – whether placing or not – showcased resilience, teamwork, and a deep commitment to the Welsh language.

Councillor Gareth Lewis, Cabinet Member for Education, Culture and Welsh Language, shared his pride:

“We are delighted to see so many of our children and schools engaging with such enthusiasm in the Welsh language and culture. They have such courage to compete on a countrywide stage! It is through our children and young people that we will see the language grow. We are committed to supporting this through our vision: #Shwmaeronment – a place where the Welsh language is celebrated.”

A special mention must also go to the dedicated teachers and supportive families, who have guided and encouraged learners throughout their Eisteddfod journey, giving countless hours of their time and energy.

The Urdd Eisteddfod remains a powerful platform for young people to explore and celebrate their linguistic and creative abilities – and this year, Merthyr Tydfil proved exactly why it is a community rich in pride, talent, and cultural vibrancy.