Rydal Penrhos Prep pupils embarked on an exciting journey to the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod on Wednesday 5 July 2023. 

At Rydal Penrhos, Welsh identity and culture are essential parts of school life, and over recent years the school has made deliberate efforts to bring Welsh traditions further into the fold.

Central to this has been the expansion of Welsh in the curriculum; from an early age until Year 10, our pupils engage in compulsory Welsh lessons that not only develop their language skills but also immerse them in the rich tapestry of Welsh culture.

Pupils recently had a chance to explore this area of interest further at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, a highly anticipated annual event. Making the eighty-mile round journey offered our pupils a unique opportunity to delve into not only Welsh heritage but also the diverse cultures of nations and regions represented at the international festival.

As they entered the event, our Prep pupils were greeted by many exhibits and stalls to be explored throughout the day. The many people dressed in stunning traditional costumes from around the world created a colourful spectacle that truly captured their imagination. Soon, they had the privilege of witnessing captivating choirs and dance performances within the festival tent. It was a truly unforgettable and immersive cultural experience.

Couple with this the chance to play fun games like hoola-hooping and walking on stilts, and the day was a real recipe for fun! On an educational level, this extraordinary event not only deepened our pupils’ understanding of Welsh culture but also allowed them to explore the cultures and traditions of nations from around the world.

Rydal Penrhos remains an international community, with over twenty-five nationalities represented among our families, and events like the International Eisteddfod continue to introduce our pupils to new ideas, traditions, and practices that follow from a global perspective.

Thank you to all the teachers, staff and parents who made this enriching trip possible. Additionally, Rydal Penrhos would also like to thank the organisers of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, who warmly welcomed the school and curated an event that provided our pupils with a remarkable opportunity for discovery and inspiration.

We look forward to visiting again in the future!