Community

Students at the heart of decision making

Published

10 years ago

June 4, 2014

waleswewant P E M B R O K E S H I R E COLLEGE, in conjunction with VocalEyes, is putting learners at the heart of the Welsh Government’s ground-breaking National Conversation on The Wales We Want.

Learners at Pembrokeshire College are being encouraged to have their voice heard and play an active role in shaping how Wales will look in 2050. As our future adults, learners are being consulted on how we should develop Wales as a sustainable nation to 2050 including priorities such as tackling climate change, education, health, employment, language, culture and what young people want Wales to be like when they become adults, parents and grandparents. The consultation is looking to inform the ‘Future Generations Bill’ and this is the first time that VocalEyes has been used in this way. Having already transformed the College’s Learner Voice process, from 100 interactions to a staggering 26,000 interactions over a twelve month period, the power of the VocalEyes platform is being recognised by many education and public sector bodies as a way of engaging with their customers and stakeholders. Neath Port Talbot College and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David are also using the VocalEyes system to encourage their learners to participate in the National Conversation. Through VocalEyes learners are being asked to put forward their own ideas as well as rating and debating other people’s ideas with the aim of positioning Wales as the best place to live, learn, work and do business from now until 2050. Through the consultation it is hoped that young people will think more about the long-term future of Wales, will work better together and will take early action to ensure the people of Wales are healthier and happier, more bilingual, our economy is prosperous and our environment is resilient. The Wales We Want is a government-sponsored conversation about sustainable development and what Wales our young people want to live in to 2050. All ideas, debates and ratings generated through VocalEyes will be passed directly to the Welsh Government during June. It is hoped the use of the VocalEyes platform will highlight the power of digital engagement when seeking the views of young people on important topics such as The Wales We Want and will ensure the sustainability of this work into the future. On launching the National Conversation, Jeff Cuthbert AM, Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty commented: “This Conversation is about the kind of Wales we want to see in the future. How do we ensure that the decisions we make now strike the right balance in securing a healthier nation with better prospects without adversely impacting on our natural resources?” In you are interested in finding out more and participating in the National Conversation, The Wales We Want website – http:// thewaleswewant.co.uk/ has a link to a survey where anyone can participate and respond to the multiple-choice questions. The voices of young people – those who will be adults in 2050 – is of particular interest, though of course anyone who considers themselves a stakeholder in Wales – as an individual, businessmember, academic, parent, grandparent – anyone interested in helping influence Wales for the future – is encouraged to join in.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

9 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

18 hours 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

20 hours 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.