News

Report highlights racism in Wales’s secondary schools

Published

1 year ago

November 30, 2023

A REPORT from the Children’s Commissioner for Wales claims that pupils from minority ethnic backgrounds are the target of racist abuse in Welsh secondary schools.

The report, published on Tuesday, November 28, says minority ethnic children and young people from across Wales experience racism in many ways. According to the report’s authors, those ways range from microaggressions to verbal and physical abuse.

The report claims those experiences are almost commonplace in schools.

The report also states that many incidents remain unreported as the youngsters targeted by abuse don’t want to be seen as “grasses”. If labelled “a grass”, victims of racist abuse fear they will be targeted with escalating abuse and retaliation. They also lack confidence in schools’ ability to tackle the issue.

The authors suggest that reported incidents are only “the tip of a very large iceberg”.

Meanwhile, teachers reported feeling underequipped and unconfident in responding to racism.

Mary van den Heuvel, Senior Policy Officer for the National Education Union Cymru, said: “NEU Cymru is deeply concerned by this report, which mirrors the experience of Black staff, who report a rise in racism in our schools and colleges with both Black students and staff facing varying degrees of racist abuse.

“NEU Cymru believes that all forms of racism must be challenged and that more must be done to support all learners and staff to feel safe and supported to understand and address this behaviour, and to feel valued and listened to in schools.”

Those teachers spoken to during the survey work for the report said they needed more practical and clearer guidance and ongoing support on how to respond.

How robust the report’s conclusions are is open to question.

Welsh secondary schools educate over 175,000 students, of whom 12% come from “Any other ethnic background’ other than ‘White British’.”

That’s 21,000 students, most educated in Cardiff, Swansea, and Newport.

However, researchers spoke only to 170 pupils, less than one per cent of the Welsh total.

In addition, the Commissioner drew on ten children who are members of her office’s existing advisory panel and special interest community ambassador groups.

According to the report, those “were children aged between 11 and 16 and with lived experience of racism who volunteered to join the CYP (Children and Young Persons) steering group.”

One of those participants, who appeared on television news to endorse the report’s findings, is the Youth

Officer for Swansea West Labour Party, whose membership includes the Children’s Commissioner for Wales, Rocio Cifuentes MBE.

Whatever issues exist about methodology, there is little doubt that racist abuse occurs in schools in every part of Wales. The scale of the issue in individual schools is likely disproportionate to the number of minority ethnic students. That is, where the number of minority ethnic children is fewest, abuse is more likely to occur.

One student in Pembrokeshire told researchers: “I was called a ‘monkey’ by a student.

“Other students reported it and parents were contacted but she [the student who called her the name] started crying so I didn’t want to make a fuss.”

A group of predominantly White Welsh participants shared that they had not directly experienced racism but had witnessed it, the majority daily.

Their experience included racist slurs in the corridor and people laughing it off. It also included people using a racial slur daily whilst talking about Asian-heritage boys.

One child said: “None of these incidents got reported apart from one. It’s all brushed under the carpet.”
Anecdotally, those incidents do not sound unlikely for Pembrokeshire schools, in which the number of minority ethnic students is comparatively small compared to the rest of Wales.

Problems with how schools tackle racism also feature in a comment by a Pembrokeshire student: “In my school, perpetrators must go to ‘rehab’ where they fill out the equality booklet. I don’t know how seriously they take this.”

Children’s Commission for Wales Rocio Cuifentes said: “There is a need for a whole culture change to support schools to respond more effectively and, more importantly, to help young people and children feel safer and feel confident that their schools will take incidents of racism seriously and something will be done about it.

“There is a real need for a comprehensive approach to dealing with this, rather than at the moment where we have pockets of excellent practice but other schools are really struggling.”

A key differential unexplored by the report is the extent to which racist expressions by children reflect their family, economic and neighbourhood backgrounds or how much those expressions arise from peer pressure and their wish to fit in with their friendship groups.

Absent those voices and that information, tackling the root causes of racism relies on the Welsh Government doing much the same as it is now, but harder and more thoroughly. Changing hearts and minds away from reflexive or learned racism will need much more.

Community

£4,000 metal Christmas tree divides opinion in Cardigan

Published

2 hours ago

December 4, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A £4,000 metal Christmas tree in Cardigan has sparked heated debate among residents, with opinions ranging from admiration to outrage over the cost and design.

The tree, leased by the council for one month, is described by officials as a “modern festive centrepiece,” intended to enhance the town’s holiday charm. At night, its illuminated frame has been praised as a striking addition to Cardigan’s streetscape. However, critics argue the daytime view reveals a less appealing “builders’ yard aesthetic.”

On social media, opinions are sharply divided. Some residents, like Francesca Loveday, appreciated the tree, saying it had attracted children and added to the festive atmosphere. “The whole town looks lovely at night with the lights and lanterns,” commented Wendy Yates.

However, others criticized the expenditure, especially during tough economic times. “It’s basically scaffolding poles with lights draped over it,” remarked Michelle Hughes, adding that it’s an “absolute eyesore” during the day.

Value for money questioned

Several residents expressed concern about the cost. “£4,000 for this? It’s outrageous!” said one local. Others suggested alternative ways the money could have been spent, such as funding community projects or supporting vulnerable groups.

Councillor Mal Evans defended the decision, stating that the tree aligns with efforts to modernize the town’s decorations and draw more visitors during the festive season. “Shops and businesses have worked hard to bring a fabulous Christmas display to the town,” he said. “This tree is part of that vision.”

In addition to debates over aesthetics and cost, safety concerns have been raised. Resident Anthony Probert warned of potential hazards, describing the tree as a “health and safety nightmare” due to its exposed electric components and climbable frame.

Mixed reviews on festive efforts

Despite the controversy surrounding the tree, many agree that Cardigan’s overall Christmas display is impressive. The decorated shopfronts, lanterns, and lights have been widely praised, even by those who dislike the tree.

The council has yet to comment on whether the £4,000 investment will result in savings or additional benefits in future years, but for now, the metal tree remains the focal point of festive—and fiery—debate in Cardigan.

Entertainment

Valero supports Torch Theatre’s boldest pantomime yet

Published

2 hours ago

December 4, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WITH just a week to go before the festive pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk opens its curtains, the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven is proud to announce Valero Energy Corporation as its pantomime sponsor for 2024.

Attracting around 10,000 attendees annually, the Torch’s pantomime has become a cornerstone of Pembrokeshire’s festive season. Last year’s production of Sleeping Beauty set new audience records, and this year’s show promises even greater excitement.

Community engagement through theatre
The pantomime is not only a spectacle but also a significant educational opportunity. Approximately 4,000 schoolchildren and teachers are expected to attend, with tailored educational packs distributed to schools to enhance the experience. Public performances draw over 6,000 enthusiastic audience members, creating a lively atmosphere filled with singing, clapping, and cheering.

Chelsey Gillard, Artistic Director of the Torch Theatre, expressed her gratitude for Valero’s support:
“We are thrilled to be working with Valero to bring the magic of pantomime to the Torch once again. This support allows us to keep ticket prices affordable, ensuring the festive spirit reaches communities across Pembrokeshire and beyond. Tickets are selling fast, especially during Christmas week, and we look forward to welcoming everyone.”

Valero’s commitment to the arts
Founded in 1980, Valero Energy Corporation is the world’s largest independent petroleum refiner and a global leader in renewable energy. Since acquiring Pembroke Refinery in 2011, the company has fostered strong ties with the local community.

“This year marks the 60th anniversary of Pembroke Refinery, which has a long tradition of supporting the arts in Pembrokeshire,” said Stephen Thornton, Valero Pembroke Refinery’s Public Affairs Manager.
“There’s no finer tradition at Christmas than pantomime. Jack and the Beanstalk is a firm family favourite, and we’re thrilled to support this season’s production at the Torch. Excellence and inclusivity are at the heart of Valero’s ethos, aligning perfectly with the Torch Theatre’s family-friendly productions.”

A festive tradition for all
Chelsey added: “Panto is the most vibrant part of our year at the Torch, and we are so excited to be working with Valero on Jack and the Beanstalk. A huge thank you to everyone at Valero for their generous support.”

Jack and the Beanstalk runs at the Torch Theatre from Friday, December 13, to Sunday, December 29, with matinee and evening performances. Tickets are priced at £23.50, £19.50 for concessions, or £75 for a family ticket. Special performances include a Relaxed Environment show on Saturday, December 14, at 2:00pm, and a BSL-supported show on Tuesday, December 17, at 6:00pm.

For tickets and more information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.

Bringing magic to life: The Torch Theatre’s bold pantomime supported by Valero Energy Corporation. (Image: Chris Lloyd Photography)

News

Police bundle away sex offender after large protest in Hubberston

Published

8 hours ago

December 4, 2024

Tom Sinclair

AROUND 70 residents of Wentworth Close and surrounding streets protested last night (Tuesday, December 3) against a man released on bail after pleading guilty to possessing child abuse images.

Jamie Hughes, 34, who admitted in court earlier in the day to possessing over 400 Category A images — the most severe type — remained on bail in their neighbourhood, prompting outrage among the community. Hughes also admitted to possessing 236 Category B and 886 Category C images.

**Armed response officers on standby in Wentworth Close on Tuesday night (Pic: Herald)**

The protest saw residents expressing their anger and demanding action. Police intervened to maintain order, eventually placing Hughes in a van and removing him from the area.

Earlier yesterday, Hughes appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to offences involving indecent images of children. The offences occurred over a five-year period, between May 1, 2018, and November 29, 2023, and were uncovered at his home on Wentworth Close.

Due to the seriousness of the offences, the magistrates declined jurisdiction, referring the case to Swansea Crown Court for sentencing on Christmas Eve.

Hughes was released on unconditional bail and will be placed on the sex offender’s register.

The decision to release Hughes on bail sparked immediate anger among residents, who voiced concerns about safety. Protesters gathered outside his home, calling for stricter measures to protect the community.

One resident said: “It’s horrifying to know someone like this was allowed back into our street after admitting such serious crimes.”

Police have confirmed they moved Hughes to another location but declined to provide further details, citing operational reasons.

Hughes will face sentencing on December 24 at Swansea Crown Court, where a judge is expected to determine the appropriate punishment for the offences.