News

Pembrokeshire headteacher’s reflect on GCSE results

Published

6 years ago

August 20, 2020

Students from Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi

PEMBROKESHIRE Secondary School Headteachers have been reflecting on today’s GCSE results and thanked pupils and staff for their hard work in what has been an unprecedented year.

Year 11 students were unable to take their exams due to Covid-19 and missed out on many of the events and rituals of the final year of compulsory education.

One Headteacher told his students: “If you can cope with this year then you can overcome almost anything life will throw at you in the future.”

Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi (St Davids) Headteacher David Hayes, said: “I would like to pay tribute to all of our excellent Year 11 pupils who have shown outstanding leadership, resilience and determination to succeed during their final year at Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi VA.

“These have been unprecedented and uncertain times for all learners, their families and their teachers. I would like to thank them for their positivity since the early closure of school and the cancelation of the summer exams. I am extremely proud of the GCSE results that our pupils have achieved.”

Some standout performances include Head Girl Isobel Howe, who achieved 10A* and 3A and will now go on to study ‘A’ levels at Rugby School after winning a music scholarship.

Head Boy James Morrissey achieved 7A*, 3 A, 3B and a Distinction in Additional Maths and will study ‘A’ levels at Pembrokeshire College. Deputy Head Boy, Matthew Thomas achieved 1A*, 1A, 8 B and 3C and will go on to study Level Three BTEC Extended Diploma in Construction Management at Pembrokeshire College.

Zara Simpson achieved 5 A*, 4 A, 5B and a Distinction in Additional Maths and will also go on to Rugby School to study for her A Level after winning a prestigious Arnold Scholarship.

Charli Grota Ysgol Y Preseli

Greenhill School (Tenby) Headteacher Raymond McGovern said it had been a pleasure to be in school to see pupils collecting their results this morning.

He added: “There has been a real sense for celebration and this is in no small part to the fact that students know that the grades they have achieved reflect the confidence their teachers have had in their industry and commitment during the whole of the two years of GCSE study.

“I would like to congratulate each and every one of our pupils. Not solely for their academic achievement but for their positive and enduring spirit, their tenacity, and their reliance they have shown throughout these unprecedented times. But even more than these for their care and compassion for each other and their community at possibly the most challenging times in the living memory of all but a very few of us.”

Mr McGovern highlighted pupil Adnan Batak, a refugee who joined the school in September 2017 with no English language skills, oral or Written.

“From this starting point, he has just completed six GCSE subjects and entry-level Welsh Language,” Mr McGovern said.

“But it is his kindness and humour that is most noticeable and enduring.”

Among top performers at Greenhill were Emily Batty 9A*, 2A; Tom Davies 9A*, 3A; Freya Williams 8A*, 3A and 1B; Sam Prestwick 3 A*, 6A and 4B; Daisy Blackwell 5A*, 5A, 2 B and 1C and Natasha Hodgson who achieved 3A*, 6A, 3B and 1C grade.

Mr McGovern continued: “Whether returning to study A Levels at Greenhill, going on to College, a training placement or the world of work I would like not only to wish each and every one of them well for their future I would like to say how proud we all are of them and how they have responded to these most unusual times. If you can cope with this then you can overcome almost anything life will throw at you in the future.”

Students from Milford Haven

At Ysgol Harri Tudor,(Pembroke) the Headteacher Fiona Kite, the Governing Body and all staff congratulated Year 11 pupils as they collect their GCSE results.

Mrs Kite said: ’’We are tremendously proud of all of our Year 11 pupils in these unprecedented times, most especially during what was an unexpected and abrupt end to their compulsory schooling, with many of the final Year 11 rituals taken away from them.

“All of our pupils are unique individuals and we hope that their centre assessed GCSE results reflect their pre Covid-19 effort and attainment.

“Almost all of our Year 11 cohort have achieved a set of results which will enable them to take up their places in the Sixth Form, at Colleges, apprenticeships or employment.

“We congratulate them all today, wishing them all the very best of luck for the next part of their academic journey with our very best wishes for their sustained and future success.’’

Haverfordwest High VC School Headteacher Janet Harries thanked pupils, staff, parents and the wider community for the support received by the school during the time interrupted by Covid-19.

Mrs Harries added: “Huge Congratulations to all our Year 11 students who have persevered in exceptionally difficult circumstances and achieved excellent results at Haverfordwest High VC School.

“Whatever their future intentions, I as Headteacher, the staff and the Governing Body are incredibly proud of them and wish them every success in their chosen pathway.

“This has been a difficult year for them all. They have not been able to sit their examinations or have the leaving celebrations they deserve but their results are testimony to the hard work they, together with their teachers and family, have put into their studies throughout their time at HHVCS.”

Notable results at Haverfordwest High included Ioan Jones-Hughes who achieved 13 A* and a grade GCSE 8, Euan Sinclair who achieved 12 A* grades and Caitlyn Horton-Jones and Janthine Aburido who both achieved 11 A* grades.

Mrs Harries said: “We are welcoming many students back to HHVCS to continue their studies at A level and we are looking forward to seeing them on Thursday, 3rd September.

“To other students who are pursuing their studies, an apprenticeship or opportunities in employment we wish them all the very best and hope they keep in touch as they progress with their chosen pathway.”

Katey-Anne Othen from Ysgol Y Preseli

The governors and staff at Ysgol Bro Gwaun (Fishguard) congratulated all learners on their achievements.

Headteacher Paul Edwards, said: “The results our students have received today are richly deserved, and are a testament to their hard work throughout the year and in previous years.

“Under difficult circumstances, these are an outstanding set of results, and are a fair reflection of the efforts made by both pupils and staff.

“We thank our students for their significant contribution to all aspects of school life throughout their time at Ysgol Bro Gwaun, and wish them every success as they move on to the next chapter in their lives.”

Notable successes at Ysgol Bro Gwaun include: Tomos Davies 12A*; Joss Lerwill 11A*, 2A; Zoe LaTrobe 9A*, 1A, 1B, 1C; Libby Rands 8A*, 5A; Alonwy Roberts 8A*, 2A, 2B; Madeleine Stott 7A*, 5A; Rebecca Hall 6A*, 3A, 3B; Christopher Harries 4A*, 6A, 2B; Liliana Westrip 3A*, 7A, 2B.

Milford Haven pupils celebrate their success

Milford Haven School Headteacher Ceri-Ann Morris, said: “On behalf of staff and governors at Milford Haven School, I would like to congratulate all Year 11 pupils on their GCSE results, reflecting the efforts and commitment they have shown over the last two years and also thank their parents/carers for their support and co-operation.

Among the top performers at Milford Haven were: Ethan Hull 9A*, 4A, 1B; Ben Parr 13A* and 1A; Ferdy Stevenson-Shields 12A* and 1A; Elin Gent 9A*, 4A and 1B; Jenny Algieri 8A*, 3A and 3B and Ethan Bateman, Sam Burton, Megan Rickard, Kiatlyn Carlson and Neve Harper.

Ms Morris added: “The school is pleased to say that all pupils left school with qualifications which will help support them to follow the path of their choice, whether that be into Sixth Form, College, apprenticeships or employment.

“We wish you all good luck in your future careers. Pwb lwc pawb.”

At Ysgol Y Preseli, Headteacher Mr Michael Davies said: “On behalf of staff and governors I would like to congratulate all Year 11 pupils on their excellent GCSE results.

“I would also like to thank their parents and guardians for their outstanding support and cooperation during what has been a very difficult and challenging time for everyone.”

“Today’s GCSE results have been achieved against a backdrop of extraordinary disruption and uncertainty and pupils and their teachers must be given the credit they deserve for an outstanding set of results which are the culmination of much hard work on their part. I would also like to thank the governing body for all their support during this unprecedented time.

“We are very proud of all the young people who have worked tirelessly throughout their time at Ysgol Y Preseli and we look forward to welcoming back a large number to our growing and successful sixth form. What is important now is to ensure that all students in our care are supported and able to move forward with the next steps in their career or learning path.”

Notable performers were Katey-Anne Othen who will be returning to the Sixth Form to study English Literature, Physics, Mathematics and Chemistry; Charlie Grota who will be studying Mechanics at Pembrokeshire College and Rhys Ouseley will be studying Agriculture at Coleg Gelli Aur.

Community

Tenby Summer Spectacular cancelled amid council row over harbour access

Published

43 minutes ago

June 22, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Organisers say popular charity events cannot safely go ahead without clear powers to control crowds

TENBY ROUND TABLE has announced that this summer’s Tenby Summer Spectacular events have been cancelled until further notice amid a dispute with Pembrokeshire County Council over crowd control at the harbour.

The events, which were due to take place on Sunday, August 16 and Sunday, August 30, have been a major feature of Tenby’s summer calendar for decades, drawing large crowds to the harbour for entertainment, food, drink and fireworks.

In a statement, Tenby Round Table said the decision had been made “with enormous sadness” and claimed it had been forced on organisers because of unresolved issues over the safe management of pedestrian access.

The organisation said it needed the council’s Public Realm department to use statutory powers to temporarily restrict pedestrian access through the event area when capacity is reached.

Organisers said the matter had first been raised with the council in September 2025 and again formally in writing in May 2026.

They said volunteers had attended meetings, commissioned professional health and safety consultants and worked on Event Management Plans, but claimed the council had still not provided a clear answer.

Tenby Round Table said: “PCC’s Public Realm department has had nine months to answer one question on safe and controlled access to the harbour. It has not done so.”

The group also alleged that recent written responses from the council contained factual inaccuracies and misleading statements about the relevant legislation.

It added that the council’s legal advice was understood to be provisional and still under internal review.

The cancellation is currently described as provisional, with organisers giving the council a final deadline of June 25 to provide what they describe as a clear, accurate and legally grounded answer.

Tenby Round Table said that if this is provided, it will do everything possible to reinstate the events.

The group said the Summer Spectacular had raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for local charities, sports teams, community groups and worthy individuals since it began.

It said the cancellation would be a devastating blow to those who benefit from the funds raised.

The statement added that organisers are still working with Dyfed-Powys Police and other relevant authorities ahead of a council licensing committee meeting in July, which is expected to consider whether the event licence should be renewed, amended or withdrawn.

The Herald has asked Pembrokeshire County Council for comment.

Charity

Sea shanties and street food bring crowds to Cardigan RNLI festival

Published

1 hour ago

June 22, 2026

Tom Sinclair

SUNSHINE, sea shanties and street food helped draw hundreds of visitors to Cardigan RNLI Lifeboat Station on Saturday (Jun 20).

The station’s Sea Shanty and Street Food Festival brought together families, supporters and visitors from across the region for a day of maritime music, food and community spirit.

Traditional sea shanty groups performed throughout the event, with songs echoing around the lifeboat station, while street food vendors served a range of refreshments.

The event also gave visitors the chance to learn more about the lifesaving work carried out by the RNLI and its volunteer crews.

Cardigan RNLI thanked the performers, food vendors, volunteers, sponsors and supporters who helped make the day a success.

Bruce Harris, Launch Authority and event organiser, said: “It was wonderful to see so many people come together to support the station, enjoy the entertainment, and celebrate our maritime heritage.

“The atmosphere throughout the day was fantastic, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who attended, performed, volunteered, and contributed to such a memorable event.”

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts.

The charity operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands.

Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved more than 146,700 lives.

News

Who is Andy Burnham, the Prime Minister-in-waiting?

Published

3 hours ago

June 22, 2026

Tom Sinclair

The Greater Manchester mayor has spent years outside Westminster, but Starmer’s resignation has placed him on the brink of Number 10

ANDY BURNHAM has spent years being described as Labour’s future. Today, that future appears to have arrived.

Following Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation announcement, the Mayor of Greater Manchester is now widely regarded as the overwhelming favourite to become Labour leader and Britain’s next Prime Minister.

For many people outside politics, Burnham is best known as the outspoken mayor who challenged Boris Johnson’s government during the COVID-19 pandemic. But his political career stretches back more than twenty years and includes some of the most senior jobs in government.

Born in Merseyside in 1970, Burnham grew up in a working-class family and has always remained closely associated with his northern roots. A lifelong Everton supporter, he has often spoken about the importance of community, public services and opportunity for ordinary families.

After studying English at Cambridge University, he worked briefly in journalism before entering politics. He was elected Labour MP for Leigh in Greater Manchester in 2001 and quickly became one of the party’s rising figures.

Under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, Burnham climbed the ministerial ladder. He served as Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Culture Secretary and later Health Secretary, giving him experience across some of the most important departments in government.

His first bid for the Labour leadership came in 2010, after Labour’s general election defeat. He lost to Ed Miliband, but the campaign raised his profile significantly. Five years later, he ran again, only to be defeated by Jeremy Corbyn in the contest that transformed Labour politics.

Rather than remain on the Westminster backbenches, Burnham made a bold move in 2017 by standing for the newly created role of Mayor of Greater Manchester. He won comfortably and went on to become one of the most recognisable regional politicians in Britain.

His national profile grew sharply during the pandemic, when he publicly challenged the UK Government over restrictions and financial support for northern cities. His confrontation with Downing Street won him praise from voters who felt their communities were being ignored by Westminster.

Supporters say Burnham’s appeal lies in his ability to connect with traditional Labour voters while remaining acceptable to the party’s centre ground. They see him as authentic, approachable and more in touch with everyday concerns than many Westminster politicians.

Politically, Burnham has championed greater devolution, arguing that power should be moved away from London to regions and nations across the UK. He has also backed transport reform, stronger public services and economic policies aimed at spreading growth beyond the South East of England.

For Wales, a Burnham premiership would be watched closely. He would inherit a Labour Party still reeling from its collapse in the Senedd election, where Plaid Cymru emerged as the dominant force in Welsh politics.

His emphasis on devolution may be welcomed in Wales, but he would face immediate pressure to show that any new relationship with the nations of the UK is more than rhetoric.

Critics argue that Burnham can be short on detail and long on broad messages. Others point out that he has spent nearly a decade outside Westminster and would need to rebuild relationships quickly in Parliament.

Despite those concerns, few figures in Labour possess his combination of experience, public recognition and electoral success. His victory in the Makerfield by-election returned him to the House of Commons and immediately intensified speculation about Starmer’s future.

Now, with Starmer stepping aside, that speculation appears close to becoming reality.

If Burnham secures the Labour leadership without a serious challenger, as many expect, he will become Britain’s next Prime Minister and inherit a government facing economic pressure, political division and a public increasingly impatient for change.

For a politician who has spent years waiting in the wings, the moment may finally have arrived.