Community

Mucky Maths helps schoolchildren travel back in time

Published

11 years ago

January 23, 2014

CHILDREN from Prendergast School are the first in Pembrokeshire to use Mucky Maths to learn about life in the Iron Age in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

The 60 pupils visited Castell Henllys Iron Age Fort recently to try out the new education session offered by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority.

Mucky Maths uses the power of numbers to teach children about life in the Iron Age 2,000 years ago.

The youngsters took measurements of the site and looked for shapes in the landscape. They also calculated how long simple everyday tasks might have taken their Celtic ancestors and compared this with their lives today.

National Park Discovery Ranger Gayle Lister explained:

“The children had already visited Castell Henllys for a historical session, travelling back through time to meet people who once lived in the Iron Age Fort.

“This innovative new session challenges the children to use and apply their mathematical knowledge and skills to make sense of history. It is a very powerful tool and helps the children to find some concrete way to measure the past.”

“It was an absolutely fantastic day,” said class teacher Emma Jenkins, adding: “The children thoroughly enjoyed the experience.”

Castell Henllys site manager Rhonwen Owen is delighted that Mucky Maths offers a new perspective on this ancient site.

“Schools are familiar with our award-winning historical programme, but this new session enables students to learn about the past in a different way. It is the cross-curricular aspect of this session that is appealing.”

But perhaps the best measure of success is to talk to the children. “You said we were going to do maths all day”, said one young learner, “but all we have done is have fun.”

The Park Authority’s Discovery Rangers designed Mucky Maths to work in locations throughout the National Park, from castles and hill forts to woodland and beaches. The session helps children to put their mathematical skills into a real life context and to use data to form and justify opinions.

The session, along with its sister session, Words in Wellies, with a focus on literacy, is available now for schools to book via the Park Authority’s Discovery Team on 01646 624856.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

15 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

1 day ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

1 day ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.