News Archive
EXPRESSIVE ARTS TRIP TO LONDON
A lovely day in London for our Year 9 and 10 pupils to visit the Tate Gallery in London this week. A fabulous opportunity for pupils to examine fine art and for Year 9 pupils to experience Art GCSE @ Cynffig for the first time.
CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH WEEK & FIKA FRIDAY
The wellbeing of our pupils and staff is important to us at Cynffig. We have been supporting Children’s Mental Health Week and the theme ‘Let’s Connect’. We aimed to ‘Keep Cynffig Connected’ by supporting this important event with a range of activities throughout Key Stage 3, 4 and 5. Pupils were involved in Challenge time activities, designated lessons, a KS3 Wellfest event and assemblies to promote and raise awareness of their own and others mental health.
Fika is an important part of Swedish culture, a state of mind where you take time out for friends and colleagues, have a coffee and a little something to eat. Staff at Cynffig have had opportunity to do this recently, meeting at the Wellness centre to relax and recharge.
YEAR 11 DON'T BREAK THE CHAIN CHALLENGE
Year 11 were set the challenge of ensuring that they were in school, in lessons and keeping all their points for the 1st ten days of our Spring Term. This was to set the standard that would help the pupils have the best possible preparation for their Mock Examinations. Congratulations to the 44 pupils who completed the challenge. We hope you enjoyed your pizza party.
SANTES DWYNWEN DAY
Dydd Santes Dwynwen Day Hapus. Our Criw Cymraeg have delivered kindness messages around school and our pupils have been learning about Santes Dwynwen during lessons.
TWEETS FROM OUR YEAR 8 PROJECT WITH NATURE QUEST
TRIP CYMRAEG TO THE GWYN HALL
Pupils in Year 7 and the Criw Cymraeg visited the Gwyn Hall in Neath on Tuesday to watch the Welsh language production - Y Bachgyn Bach Gwyrdd. Pupils and staff thoroughly enjoyed the show and had opportunity to practise their Cymraeg too! Bendigedig!
CHILDREN IN NEED 2022
Cynffig celebrated Children In Need in style this year with activities led by our Senior Team. Events included a staff and Year12 & 13 fancy dress, cake sales, quizzes and a staff versus Sixth form netball match at lunchtime.
UK PARLIAMENT WEEK 2022
Pupils in the Student Parliament have organised whole school Challenge Time activities for UK Parliament Week. There has been opportunity for pupils to learn about how the UK Parliament works but also to discuss and debate issues that are important to them living in Wales. As part of their COPE (Certificate of Personal Effectiveness) Qualification Year 10 pupils have met with Madeline Moon, former Member of Parliament for Bridgend and President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly. They have also met with the Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council, Councillor Huw David, former pupil of Cynffig and Councillor Jon-Paul Blundell, Cabinet Member for Education. In these sessions pupils have learnt about their careers but have also had the opportunity to ask questions about how their roles impact on them as young people.
WCIA SCHOOL'S PEACE CONFERENCE 2022
Pupils in the Student Parliament attended the WCIA's School Peace Conference in November. They had the opportunity to listen to presentations from Cyfartha and Bryngwyn, where they shared their Peace Journey. The Student Parliament are now looking at what our Peace Journey means to us here at Cynffig.
ANTIBULLYING WEEK 2022
As part of our Antibullying Week activities pupils have participated in assemblies and activities during Challenge Time. Our Cynffig Kindness Tree has been in our reception area where visitors, staff and pupils have been able to write e message of and hang it on the tree.
REMEMBRANCE 2022
Our Head Boy, Luke Hamer Davies, Head Girl, Cerys Powell and Deputy Head Girl, Chloe Russell joined the local community it the annual services of remembrance at Kenfig Hill and Cefn Cribwr.
URDD JAMBORI
Pupils in KS3 took part in the Urdd Jambori singalong on 10th November. The event was supported by over 1/4 million Welsh children to celebrate Wales going to the World Cup. It was an event that brought Wales together to celebrate our Welshness. Diolch yn farr to Mrs Arnold for organising our singing of Yma O Hyd!
SPORTING NEWS
Rugby
The Year 9 team have had a challenging start to the season and have qualified for the Bowl (3rd tier) competition in the Ospreys Cup. They will play a quarter final match in the first 2 weeks back against Cwm Brombil. The semi final and final will be in the last week of November and the first week of December. Our U16 rugby boys beat Cwmtawe 27-17 in a very close game right up until the final whistle and Year 7 have had an exciting start including a well played game against Brynteg.
Netball
We are delighted to see our netball teams peforming so well this term. On the 19th October, we witnessed four impressive games of netball against Porthcawl Comprehensive. Special mentions go to Year 8 for winning 9 - 2. Well done to Sydney Evans of Year 9 who was player of the match, Ava Hyde-Jones and Tia Jenkins of Year 8 for their consistent shooting. On the 20th October our Year 10 and 11 team took on Bryntirion Comprehensive winning 10 - 3. Well done to players of the match who were Olivia Hughes, Tegan Jones and Roxy Jones. We thank Pencoed Comprehensive for travelling to us on the 25th October to play against our Year 10 teams. Congratulations to our teams winning 11—2 and 7—4. Well done also to our Year 11s who fought hard against a strong opposition. Well done and thank you to all of our girls who have taken part this half term.
‘The Elite Tang Soo Do’
Cynffig is extremely proud of Ava Hyde-Jones in Year 8. Ava competed in ‘The Elite Tang Soo Do’, Invitational Championship last weekend, held in Dagenham. Ava, who is a member of the Porthcawl Tang Soo, represented the team amazingly winning two gold medals in the forms and sparring categories. In addition to this, Ava was awarded the Junior Cup Grade ‘Grand Champion’ trophy for the whole competition. What a fantastic achievement Ava - Well done!.
SIARTER IAITH & CRIW CYMRAEG NEWS
It has been a busy start to the year for our Siarter Iaith and Criw Cymraeg! The Criw Cymraeg have been successful in raising awareness of the Siarter Iaith in a presentation to Governor’s on Governor Day and a whole school online assembly for Diwrnod Shwmae. You can check out their assembly on our Siarter Iaith News page.
We have launched our new DUOLINGO challenge for staff and pupils, where prizes are given each week to the top scorers. Our Clwb Cymraeg is now back up and running after the Summer and our new Coffi & Clebran for staff has met at lunch times. In addition to this we had a very successful Diwrnod Shwmai with Brecwast Bingo, Hela Drysor, Careoci Cymraeg and Cacen Cymraeg. Our Criw Cymraeg also facilitated activities in our Cynffig Cynefin Transition Event.
STUDENT PARLIAMENT TRAINING DAY
All members of the Student Parliament took part in our training day on Tuesday 18th October. It was a busy day with many providers offering training and support to our new members. Thank you to Bridgend Youth Council for sharing information with us. Valleys Steps delivered a workshop on self esteem and confidence whilst pupils also took part in a WCIA workshop on communication skills and what it takes to be a good Student Parliament member. To end the day on a high pupils took part in a team building session delivered by Ospreys Rugby.
The Student Parliament have already undertaken some official duties this week including an assembly for Black History Month. We are looking forward to more to come!
Student Parliament Elections
It has been an exciting start to the new Student Parliament 2022-23, with our launch assemblies, Year 11 manifestos, our Election and Training Days.
Election Day was held on Friday 7th October, where all pupils in school came to the Youth Wing to cast their vote. They voted for who they’d like to represent their year group, and one year 11 pupil for Chairperson.
We would like to say a huge congratulations to our elected Student Cabinet this year.
Joshua Dennis - Chairperson
Siona Mumford & Kacee Carter Clare - Active Wellbeing
Grace Evans & Hali Walker - Teaching & Learning
Rhys Butters - Environment
Thomas Collier & Joshua Dennis - Community
12 pupils from Years 7-10 will sit in each Department and support the Student Cabinet in their role. You can see more information on our Cynffig Student Parliament page.
Deputy Member of the UK Youth Parliament (DMYP) of Bridgend
We are delighted for our Year 13 student Tyler Thomas, who has become the Deputy Member of the UK Youth Parliament (DMYP) of Bridgend. Previously, Tyler had been actively attending Bridgend Youth Council meetings however as Deputy Member he will now attend meetings with the UK Youth Parliament. Tyler stands for three key principles: stop plastic pollution, create a movement of change for mental health and transform education.
We very much look forward to following Tyler’s political journey. We wish him every success in his new role and the future.
SEREN NEWS
Seren is a Welsh Government initiative dedicated to helping Wales' brightest students achieve their full academic potential and support their education pathway into leading universities in Wales, the UK, and overseas.
Year 8 pupils attended the Seren Launch in ‘The Steam Academy in Pencoed College where they gained an insight into the Seren foundation programme. Pupils listened to presentations from Oxford University,
Alumni Student Leah Evans a former Cynffig pupil, as well as learning about wellbeing tips and healthy mindset.
European Day of Languages 2022 winners
Big FELICITACIONES to our European Day of Languages 2022 treasure hunt competition winners! 1st Cherry Bamsey, 2nd Ola Wojtylko and 3rd Mason Caine. Enjoy your vouchers!
EXPRESSIVE ARTS VISITS
It has been a busy start to the year with our Key Stage 4 pupils visiting Cardiff Museum to support their GCSE Art and Design course.
110 pupils from year 7 have been to Cardiff this week resourcing ideas, gathering images and seeing first hand many famous pieces of art, craft and Welsh heritage. The new Curriculum for Wales promotes authentic experiences enabling them to be inspired by the themes they see. They visited the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff Castle and witnessed the largest (and smallest) love spoon in Wales!.
Our Wellness Centre
At the start of the year we opened the doors to calmness and
tranquillity with the unveiling of our ‘Wellness Centre’. We have
welcomed pupils, staff, members of our governing body and our local
community. The Wellness Centre provides pupils the opportunity to
feel safe and supported. The environment has also proved to be a
popular space for our staff to use on a Friday lunchtime.
Governor Day 2022
On Tuesday 20th September, we welcomed members of our Governing body into school for the day. The governors spent time with staff and pupils who introduced them to many aspects of school life at Cynffig.
Pupils from Key Stage 3 taught members of the Governing Body greetings
in Welsh, highlighting some of the work that Cynffig has undertaken with ’Siarter Iaith’ embracing the Welsh Language.
CYNFFIG GOES GREEN FOR THE ‘GREAT BIG GREEN WEEK’!
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OUR PUPILS COLLECTING RESULTS THIS SUMMER!
LLONGYFARCHIADAU I BAWB!
SIARTER IAITH BRONZE AWARD ACHEIVED FOR CYNFFIG!
Llongyfarchiadau i bawb yn Ysgol Uwchradd Cynffig, rydych chi’n llwyr haeddu gwobr efydd Cymraeg Campus. Congratulations to everyone at Cynffig Secondary School, you richly deserve the Cymraeg Campus bronze award.
LLONGYFARCHIADAU to the Welsh department on leading the school to become the FIRST Bridgend Secondary school to achieve a Bronze Award for Siarter Iaith.
Siarter Iaith is a Welsh Government initiative to promote the Welsh Language in schools which has enabled pupils and staff alike to embrace the Welsh Language.
The report commented on the following:
Cymraeg Campus is driven by very strong and enthusiastic leadership. The process is also supported highly effectively by the headteacher, SLT and all staff.
• An enthusiastic Criw Cymraeg is instrumental in implementing, developing, and monitoring Cymraeg Campus. They meet regularly to plan activities and events.
• Incidental Welsh is very well embedded in all areas of school life and is used naturally by all staff
Da iawn pawb!
SECOND GREEN FLAG AWARD RECEIVED FOR CYNFFIG!
After months of hard work and catch up, our Eco- Committee managed to secure our 2nd Green Flag award. It links in to our Action Plan to reduce plastic at school and
in our local community. We have done this by gifting all of Year 7 a reusable plastic drinks bottle. Also, our recycled uniform scheme played an important role. We are very pleased and proud of this achievement, a massive thank you to all involved.
Biology Trip To The Botanical Gardens
On Thursday the Science Department and SRC took 57 Yr8/9 pupils to the Botanical Gardens to see the British Bird of Prey Centre as it was a great opportunity to learn outside the classroom with our current topic in Biology.
The pupils had a classroom session looking at the adaptations of Owls and Falcons followed by flying a bird of prey and seeing them up close in the flying display. The pupils then had time to explore the stunning gardens including the Great Glass House, Ghost Trees and Wallace Garden which included a treasure hunt.
This is the lovely response from the garden regarding our pupils:
'I have to tell you that the staff all commented on the exemplary behaviour of the learners. They were an absolute pleasure to have visiting us. They asked brilliant questions, were genuinely interested in the topics we discussed and were polite and respectful.
CHEMISTRY TRIP TO SWANSEA UNIVERSITY
Mrs Smith took Year 9 pupils to Swansea University's Chemistry Department on Tuesday. Pupils had the opportunity to participate in STEM activities. Pupils completed experiments, showing a real enthusiasm for Chemistry. It was lovely for them to be in a University and they made Aspirin! They also tested the pH of different pain killers and learnt all about the importance of chemistry.
Trip to Margam Park Adventure.
Twelve of our KS3 Young Carers arrived in Margam Park on Tuesday 28th June for a fun filled day of adventure. They spent their time learning Team building, Go Karting and Paddling Boarding. A lot Although the weather wasn’t the brightest everyone joined in and it was agreed had a thoroughly good time. Paddling boarding proved very popular with the girls who out of choice went for a swim in the lake after (very brave), the boys excelled at their team building challenges, proving that they had the skills to work in harmony with each other and accomplish their goals.
The day was organised by the Young Carer Service in Bridgend. If you think you have a child that is a Young Carer please contact Sally Owen to discuss further.
Vitality Blast T20 Cricket
Pupils in Year 7-10 attended the T20 Cricket in Sophia Gardens to watch Glamorgan playing Middlesex. This was an excellent experience for our pupils, with a brilliant win from Glamorgan.
Bridgend College Future Festival
Our Seren and MAT pupils along with our READY Golden Ticket winners attended the Bridgend College Future Festival. It was packed with interactive activities, stalls, music, exhibitions, workshops and much more, all focused on sustainability.
The festival was based around seven themed ‘villages’. Pupils could find out how they could do a bit more for nature, climate change, improve their wellbeing and support their communities.
Good Luck & Good Bye Year 11!
HAY FESTIVAL VISIT MAY 2022
At the end of term 53 pupils from years 9 and 10 attended the Hay Festival with members of the English department.
It was an invaluable, cultural experience for our pupils who valued the opportunity to listen to famous authors speak about their latest books. Pupils got to buy books, get them signed and soak up the festival atmosphere!.
Working hard for seven, solid months, Chloe Russell, Cerys Powell, Oliver Howe and Madison Jones endured long nights of difficult research and development to design “a non-invasive, reusable instrument for hip replacement surgery”, in this case a tool for inserting the acetabular cup (think part of the ball-joint) into the hip of a patient. They were required to write a technical report with their findings, complete 3D modelling and drawings, carry out financial cost-benefit analyses and last but not least manufacture a working concept. Their innovative solution made use of pneumatic suction and employed complex 3D printing techniques.
SOUTH WALES ENGINEERING SUCCESS
Four exceptionally talented and intrepid Cynffig Year 12 students visited Cardiff City Stadium in early May to attend the South Wales finals of the annual STEM Cymru Engineering Education Scheme with the assistance of Mr Morrish and Mr Berry. The EESW project pairs schools with engineering and scientific research companies to investigate and propose an engineering solution to a genuine, live problem which the company is currently facing. For three years, Cynffig has been fortunate to have formed a partnership with Zimmer Biomet, a global company with a major manufacturing facility in Bridgend. The Bridgend factory specialises in orthopaedic surgical implants, specifically for use in total hip and knee replacements.
PRINCE’S TRUST VISIT TO ATLANTIC COLLEGE AND ST.DONUTS CASTLE
Last week, pupils from Year 10 Prince’s Trust had the opportunity to experience Atlantic College and St Donuts for the first time.
The coastal castle grounds plays host to hundreds of oversees students and is the only one in the UK. Its aim is to unite people and nations globally for a peaceful and sustainable future. Pupils were given the opportunity to participate in a range of activities and
a tour of the grounds. Activities included visiting the rose garden; a ‘Romeo and Juliet’ balcony, the gargoyle garden full of eerie monster like faces as well as climbing walls, cold water swimming and ‘leap of faith’ pole jumps! Well done to all pupils for their extraordinary attempts at the activities. Mr Williams had a go, but lost his nerve after 8 feet up the wall! The event was in support of International Women’s Day, and our pupils heard about inspirational women who made historical achievements in the world. Pupils had the chance to have lunch in the great hall, much like ‘Hogwarts’ with unsuspecting ‘royals’ amongst the resident students there! Well done everyone!
Newyddion Criw Cymraeg
Our Criw Cymraeg had a busy first week back delivering daffodils to the staff to say 'Diolch' to them in celebration of Dydd Gwyl Dewi Sant on March 1st.
The Criw Cymraeg are currently in the process of designing our new display board for reception to show our progress as a school towards earning the Siarter Iaith Cymraeg Campus Bronze Award. They have also come up with lots of new ideas for our Year 7 Clwb Cymru Cwl which takes place once a fortnight. We hope to see even more of you there as the term goes on!
Rugby Round Up With Mr Davies!
Year 8 travelled to Maesteg on Thursday 10th February for a 7s Rugby Festival with the other Bridgend schools. They played a total of 7 matches, winning 3 and losing 4 against some good quality opposition. The boys acquitted themselves really well and their efforts are to be commended! Games were played over 10 minute periods and were all very competitive. There were some strong performances from Ellis Yorke, Kayden Brooke, Morgan Jenkins, Morgan Everton and Ashton Comins. All 15 players represented the school proudly. Well done boys!
Top try scorers on the day were;
Morgan Jenkins 5
Kayden Brooke 4
Ellis Yorke 4
MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL BUILDING PROJECT
Pupils from year 9 who are part of our Achieve programme for the Prince’s Trust have begun exploring the mountain bike trails in Margam Park last week. This project forms part of their ‘Physical Wellbeing’ unit which leads to a Level 2 qualification. Last week we experienced the green and blue trails where we learned what made an exciting trail for mountain biking. Top of the range mountain bikes were used, and pupils are very much looking forward to trying out their e bikes soon. The skills and trail maintenance project will run for a number of weeks where pupils will create their own course. Mr Williams even tried his hand at some skilful sections of the course, which he successfully completed without any injury!
Children's Mental Health Week
Cynffig Student Parliament pupils have been taking the lead on supporting Children's Mental Health Week at Cynffig. Pupils have created and delivered a wide range of activities during Challenge Time to raise awareness and to offer support to pupils across the school! Da iawn!
Dydd Miwsig Cymru
Dydd Miwsig Cymru... last Friday pupils celebrated the annual Dydd Miwsig Cymru / Welsh Language Music Day across school with Challenge Time activities and quizzes and activities in their Welsh lessons! #dyddmiwsigcymru
Penblwydd Hapus Mr Urdd!
Happy 100th Birthday Urdd Gobaith Cymru. This year Urdd Gobaith Cymru celebrates its 100th birthday and on January 25th Cynffig pupils celebrated by taking part in the event to break 2 Guinness World Records. Pupils had to sing the song Hey Mistar Urdd and upload their video onto Facebook and Twitter. 1176 videos were shared on Facebook, the record was 418, with over 250 being shared on Twitter. Here is the link to our video: https://youtu.be/vhgsRgdFEGA
CYNFFIG CHRISTMAS CHEER!
Christmas messages from our pupils this Christmas!
Rugby Round Up From Mr Davies
Year 8 continued their improved performances with a comprehensive win over Archbishop. Tries were scored by Kayden Brooke (4), Ellis Yorke (3), Morgan Jenkins, Morgan Everton, Trent Harben-Jones, Logan Williams, Ashton Comins and Bailey Sharman.
It was fantastic to see new players Tom Gardiner and Jack Baldwin play the full game!
Christmas Jumper Day 2021
Today at Cynffig we celebrated Christmas Jumper day. To celebrate Student Parliament organised an assembly and arranged Challenge Time activities to raise the Christmas spirit. Members of our Student Parliament organised a Swap Shop where pupils could pay a pound for Christmas headbands, hats or glasses or personalised reindeer baubles. The pupils that participated were able to then swap their item for a lunch pass for one day in the last week of term. #christmasjumperday Grace Evans - Year 10 Student Parliament
Local Place For Nature
On Friday 19th November a representative from Keeping Wales Tidy came to help us restore our greenspaces as part of the Local Places for Nature Initiative. The pupils planted out a variety of fruit bushes and herbs in order to improve the biodiversity of the school site, and also to provide us with some produce come the springtime. Watch this ‘growing space’! Thank you to Keep Wales Tidy and the Eco-Committee for their work towards building a sustainable future. Mrs Forster and Mrs Edwards.
Student Parliament Trip to UK Parliament
On Monday 29th November members of Student Parliament were able to visit London. Firstly, we went to the Houses of Parliament and received a tour of the building. We were even able to go into the Chambers of the House of Commons and House of Lords.
We saw where Boris Johnson sits during debates, and where the Queen enters and sits when she opens Parliament.
After having our tour around The Houses of Parliament, we split into two groups and had our debate on “Should examinations be banned?”
One group took the ‘for’s’ and the others took the ‘against’. We came up with some arguments before debating each other. Unsurprisingly the ‘for’s’ won!
After this we went took a trip on the London Eye - we had great views of London and managed to take lots of photos. A great day was had by everyone.
Hali Walker, 10F
Rugby Round Up From Mr Davies
Year 8 had their first win of the season on Tuesday 16th November against Cwm Brombil. After two defeats at the hands of Porthcawl and Brynteg it was great to see the year 8 team get a win. Tries from Owain Harris, Ellis Yorke (3), Tom Davies, Morgan Jenkins and Logan Williams plus 4 conversions from Logan Williams gave the boys a convincing 48-31 victory.
There were 22 players available for Tuesday’s game, many of whom were playing their first school game.
Year 8 have now seen 24 players represent the school rugby team this season which is very encouraging. If you are interested in joining the rugby team please see Mr Davies.
Da iawn Blwyddyn 8!
Children In Need
Huge thank you to the Sixth Form for planning and organising Cynffig’s Children in Need celebrations this year. Staff and Sixth Form pupils were challenged to choose a fancy dress costume that began with the same letter of their name! In the Sixth Form we had Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz, Elves, Ketchup, Spiderman, Ed Sheeran, Liam Gallagher, Jurgen Klopp, a minion, a Christmas tree and some cowgirls to name a few! Our staff did not disappoint either - we had animals, a dragon, Mario and Luigi, the Hulk, He-Man and Harry Potter! Check out the amazing pictures below. Money collected is currently being counted and we will announce next week how much you all raised for this fantastic cause.
Anti Bullying Week
This week has been a week of collaboration and reflection. At the start of the week we have worn odd socks, promoted anti-bullying week and celebrated what makes us all unique. During Challenge times pupils have had the opportunity to reflect on ‘OneKindWord’ creating vibrant displays across the school. #AntiBullyingWeek #OneKindWord #OddSocksDay
Student Parliament Update!
Congratulations to 7C and 9G for winning our Challenge UK Parliament Week competition. They completed a total of 10 challenges each to raise their awareness of UK Parliament. Also, Challenge classes have been discussing the debate issues discussed in each Department Debate Session and have voted on the one issue that they think should become a law. The Student Parliament will be debating 'Should University be Free?' when we visit UK Parliament on 29 November!
Peace School's Climate Justice Conference
We have continued the theme of COP26, with the Student Parliament attending the Peace Schools Climate Justice Conference. This gave our pupils the opportunity to consider Wales and the world. They have explored the contribution they will play as healthy and confident individuals in the future.
Remembrance Day 2021
This week during challenge time we have taken the time to reflect on the importance of Remembrance Day. 2021 marks 100 years since the nation’s collective Remembrance traditions were first brought together. The poppy, the two minute silence, the service for the Unknown Warrior and the marching past cenotaphs are all traditions that millions participate in every year.
In school we have considered who, why and how we remember and we have stopped to remember those who have served and sacrificed. This is an important part of education as we support pupils to engage with Remembrance and in doing so equip
our pupils to be ethical, informed citizens.
RUGBY ROUND UP
Year 7 showed continued improvement in their fixture against Bryntirion, in which they achieved a first win of the season. After a slow start, and conceding a couple of tries, the boys started to get more involved in the game. They started making some big tackles and looked dangerous every time they had the ball, and their confidence grew with every minute. Not long after the start of the second half, the boys had taken the lead with some fantastic open rugby. By the end of a very good game, Cynffig had won by two tries. Try scorers were Logan Cox, Oscar Raikes, Bailey Edwards and Shay Jones. All the boys were excellent in both their enthusiasm and the skills they displayed. Well done boys, training next week!!!
Cynffig have been supporting UK Parliament Week!
Cynffig have been supporting UK Parliament week!
The Student Parliament have arranged a challenge time competition, where each form complete activities to raise their awareness of how the UK Parliament operates. They are hoping to achieve their Democra Tree badge from UK Parliament. They have made an excellent start. Winners will be announced next week.
Each Department has met this week to debate a topical issue relating to their department:
Active Well Being - Free school meals during school holidays
Eco - single use plastics
Community - young people and their contribution to the local community
Teaching & Learning - University for free
Their arguments for and against will be shared with whole school next week and a vote carried out on which should become a law. Catch up here next week for the result!
Diwrnod Shwmae Su'mae 2021 Logo Design Winner!
Here is Katryn Treharne of year 8 modelling her new hoodie with the logo she designed
for Diwrnod Shwmae! Llongyfarchiadau Katryn!
SIXTH FORM SENIOR TEAM
Mrs Padmore is extremely proud to announce the new
Sixth Form Senior Team for 2021-22.
Our Head Boy is Joshua Urch and our Head Girl is Mia
Thomas. You will be seeing them around the school
organising events (look out for Children in Need on 19th
November) and speaking to you in challenge time.
We wish them and the rest of the Senior Team good luck
this year.
RUGBY ROUND UP WITH MR EASTMENT! 22.10.21
This week year 7, 8 and 9 have played their second games of the season. Year 9 played Llangynwydd and year 7 and 8 hosted Brynteg.
Year 9 backed upped their impressive victory last week against Cwm Brombil with another high scoring win, 74-34. Again, the boys played some fantastic open rugby and scored some great tries. Owain Everton scored another 5 tries to go with the 7 tries he scored in last weeks win.
Well done to all the boys. Year 7 and 8 played their second tough fixture, this time against two very strong Brynteg sides. Both teams lost but showed definite signs of improvement on last week's games. The results will come with a couple more training sessions under their belt. Year 9 lost 43-19, Kayden Brooke scoring three tries. Year 7 continue to show great effort and a particularly good performance from Bailey Edwards who made some outstanding tackles throughout the game and Logan Cox and Oscar Raikes who always made ground with the ball in hand.
Next arranged fixture for year 7 and 8 is away against Bryntirion on Thursday 4th November.
Sixth Form organise a Wear Red for Show Racism the Red Card!
The Sixth Form organised a Wear Red for Show Racism the Red Card on Friday 22 October.
All Key Stage 3 challenge classes had the opportunity to take part in a penalty challenge against the teachers. The victorious form classes were 7M, 8D and 9D. Well done to everyone who took part.
At challenge time the Sixth Form prepared a presentation to highlight the work that Show Racism the Red Card carry out in the fight against racism. There was also an opportunity to take part in a quiz about the inclusivity of the Premier League. Winner of this will be announced at after half term.
Cynffig Student Parliament supports Black History Month!
Our Active Wellbeing Department of the Student Parliament have created and delivered Challenge Time activities this week to raise awareness of Black History Month across the school. They have provided information, celebrated black music, raised awareness on Black Lives Matters and commemorated Martin Luther King and Rose Parks! Well done to all those involved!
Diwrnod Shwmae Su'mae 2021
On Friday 15 October, Cynffig joined the rest of Wales in celebrating Diwrnod Shwmae Su'mae. There was a week of activities including Gwersi Cymraeg (Welshy Lessons), Cystadleuaeth Logo( Logo Design), Brecwast Bingo Hela Drysor (Treasure Hunt), Cwis Cymraeg and Secret Spy Cymraeg. Mr Reed, Mrs Fenton and Mr Whatley won the Secret Spy for the best Cymraeg amongst the staff! Da iawn i bawb! During the week of Diwrnod Shwmae Su'mae we held a Cystadleuaeth Logo (logo competition) Runners up were Lowri Bentley and Emma Roberts of Year 9 and Lydia Stamp of Year 11. The first place went to Katryn Treharne of Year 8. She will be receiving a hoodie with her design printed on it. Congratulations to all who took part! Take a look at the video below to see the winning designs.
STUDENT PARLIAMENT ELECTIONS 2021
A huge congratulations to all of newly elected student parliament members. Each year council and each
student parliament member has been busy selecting which department they would like to represent.
Meetings are already up and running and member are full of
enthusiasm to get started on new activities and projects across the school.
Megan Bevan Takes Top Prize!
Cynffig is delighted to extend a huge congratulations to Megan and Whizzy who recently competed in the Dressage Championships of Great Britain 2021. Not only did they compete in this prestigious event, they were the overall winners of the under 12’s Dressage events on both Friday and Saturday.
An amazing achievement Megan, well done from
everyone at Cynffig. We wish you and Whizzy all the very best for your future endeavours!
RUGBY ROUND UP WITH MR EASTMENT! 15.10.21
Cynffig played Porthcawl Comprehensive across Key Stage 3 this week. Year 7 they had their first game as a team, with all of the boys playing extremely well. A great effort displayed by all. Unfortunately Cynffig were defeated 27-7, but the boys made excellent progress. Cynffig's try was scored by Oscar Raikes and converted by Bailey Edwards.
Year 8 came up against an excellent Porthcawl side and unfortunately, with a few boys missing through injury it influenced the result of the game. The score line did not do justice to the effort the boys put in. We are looking forward to the next fixture against Brynteg, with a full squad to choose from.
Year 9 won 50-25! Fantastic performances from all boys in the first fixture of the year. Try scorers were; Tyler Williams, Tyler Clatworthy, Dylan Jones and Owain Everton who scored an amazing 7 tries! Again, well done to all the boys on a fantastic performance.
WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2021 #HelloYellow
Cynffig was walking in sunshine today, when pupils and staff wore yellow to raise awareness and funds for Young Minds. Staff decorated their desks and pupils created positivity trees. Well done to the Active Wellbeing Department of the Student Parliament for organising this important event.
In doing such a little thing wearing yellow, we hope together we can make a big difference to support one another's’ mental health .
A huge DIOLCH (Thankyou) to our Student Parliament for helping organise the day!
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR ECO-COMMITTEE & LOCAL COUNCIL
This year our Local Council and Cynffig’s Eco-Committee have gifted all Year 7 pupils with a reusable water bottle. At Cynffig, our aim is to reduce plastic waste within our school and Local Community.
All pupils are encouraged to fill their water bottles at home and at our fresh water stations during the school day.
Pupils in ALL year groups can now purchase a reusable bottle from the main office for 50p.
YYEAR 11 ‘WELLFEST 2021’
‘Wellfest 2021’ was an overwhelming success with our Year 11 pupils enjoying workshops, HITT sessions and veggie/fruit smoothies! Visits from outside from the Fire Service, British Transport Police, Local Community Police officers, RNLI, Dementia Friends, Careers Wales, Dads and Lads mental health group and ATC provided pupils with time for valuable discussions as well as strategies and information they’ll use for life. A big thank you to all the providers for making ‘Wellfest’ a day to remember. We look forward to welcoming you back to Cynffig in the near future.
AN OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT JOSEPH POWELL - YEAR 13!
An outstanding achievement for Joseph Powell in Year 13. Joseph has achieved 4 A* grades in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics and & Welsh Bac. Joseph will now study Physics at Jesus College, Oxford. We wish Joseph best of luck for his bright future!
CONGRATULATIONS TO YEAR 12 & 13!
Congratulations to all Year 12 and Year13 pupils at Cynffig Comprehensive who have received their confirmed qualification grades today. Celebrate and enjoy! You so very much deserve it. Year 13 we wish you all the very best for the future. Year 12, see you in September for A2. #TeamCynffig
New Information Regarding Mobile Phones in School - June 2021
Click here to access the most recent letter regarding mobile phones in school
CONGRATULATIONS TO BELLA LIMA IN 8G!
Bella played in the Welsh Ping Junior Tour for golf this weekend. Bella was the highest girl in the U14 age group and won a Ping Golf bag and medal.
Bella has been put straight through to competing in the Welsh final in September.
Cynffig Celebrates Wear Red for Wales.
Thank you!
Thank you to walters-group.co.uk for helping us to improve our long jump ready for athletics this Summer term.
Congratulations Josh!
Eisteddfod Rhithiol Cynffig - March 1st 2021
On Monday 1st March we held our first ever Eisteddfod Rhithiol. (Virtual Eisteddfod)
Click on this link to watch the highlights of the day. https://youtu.be/jOBeiLlCvwM
KS3 Wellbeing Day - Thursday 4th February 2021
Amazing contribution from our KS3 pupils for Wellbeing Day
On Thursday 4th February, in support of Children’s Mental Health day all Key Stage 3 pupils were given the opportunity to take part in a virtual wellbeing day. The day was extremely successful, with many pupils completing a range of challenges which enabled them to step away form the screen for a while take part in activities that allowed them to follow the theme of ‘express yourself’. Pupils joined in live events with staff including baking, yoga and HIIT workout sessions. Creative challenges including origami, pebble painting, music and acrostic poem writing. The event also allowed our KS3 pupils to catch up, organise their time and focus on activities they enjoy. Well done to all who took part. There are simply too many great results to show them all! Below are just a few amazing efforts
Thank you!
Thank you Captain Sir Tom Moore for being such an inspiration and reminding us that we can all try, we can all care and we can all be kind.
Sixth Form Wellbeing Day - 28th January 2021
A successful ‘Sixth Form Wellbeing day’
Mrs Padmore would like to say a huge thank you to all of the pupils who took part in the first Sixth Form Wellbeing day. The purpose of the day was to focus on physical and mental welfare by completing a range of wellbeing activities. These were split into 4 sections; Physical, Environmental, Organisation and Enrichment. It was lovely to see so many photos sent in to show what had been happening that day. Trialling these and finding an activity that works for you personally will have a positive impact on academic success and will also serve you well in the future. Even though your main focus is to achieve the best grades possible, it is also important that you don’t neglect yourselves. Congratulations to Katie Evans in Year 13 and Megan Barnfield in Year 12 who completed the most activities. Gift Vouchers will be making their way to you this week!
KS3 FREESTYLE it - Holocaust Day - 27th January 2021
Well done to all our pupils who took part in our ‘Freestyle IT day’.
A great effort from all of our pupils who produced some fantastic work for the Holocaust Memorial day. Congratulations to all of our pupils who took time to remember something that changed the course of history, and all of our lives forever. It was an opportunity for pupils to improve their knowledge on the Holocaust and consider why it's still relevant and important in 2021. Here are just some of the fantastic efforts made by our pupils. Well done to all.
Here is the most recent update regarding assessment arrangements for Year 11, 12 & 13 Summer 2021.
We are keen to hear from you as parent/carers your views regarding the blended learning work that was set for pupils in year 9 – 13. It would be helpful if you would help us evaluate our practices so that we can build on the positives and where possible address any concerns. Please complete by clicking on the link below:
The Wave's Women of Steel 2020
Girls in Year 8 and Year 9 have taken part in The Wave's Women of Steel virtual roadshow this week. The event led by Claire Scott from the Wave's Breakfast Show is all about celebrating the amazing achievements of all the women out there, to show that your gender should not dictate your job title, and to keep inspiring the next generation... because there is no limit to what we can achieve. Guest speakers included TV presenter, Anna – Ryder Richardson, renowned fashion designer, Jayne Pierson, award winning news editor, Emma Grant, Chief Superintendent Joanna Maal, Susan Jones - Senior Quality Systems Specialist and Chartered Engineer at TATA Steel and Fiona Lee - a family law solicitor from Swansea. All of these amazing women, have paved the way, and fought to do what they wanted to do, even though society might have told them they can’t, gave career advice, guidance and inspiration to our girls.
Student Parliament Election Results 2020
Our annual Student Parliament Elections have been a success this week, with over 90 pupils running for election. Slightly different to our usual live event in the hall, this year pupils completed an on line nomination form, Year 12 created videos of their manifestos and the whole school voted online. Please click on the link to catch up on the results.
Year 6 'Virtual Open Evening'
Thanks to all our prospective parents who joined us for our Year 6 'Virtual Open Evening' on Thursday 15th October. If you were unable to make it, our dedicated page can be found here. We welcome you all to our Cynffig community and look forward to receiving applications for entry in 2021.
New website and features
This is a new website infrastructure and we expect a few 'teething problems', however we're always eager to hear feedback and listen to suggestions for how we can improve things. If you would like to suggest an improvement to the site please contact admin.cynffig@bridgend.gov.uk.
Transition Students
We now have a dedicated transition website, new for 2020, which is jam packed full of interesting reads and information for new pupils and parents coming to Cynffig in September. You can also find such features as a virtual tour guided, drone footage of the school site and video introductions from the pastoral and form teachers. There are activities to get involved in over the summer and important information regarding the school day, uniform and answers to a host of important questions new pupils and parents are bound to have.
Learning at Home
For existing pupils and parents we have a dedicated website for Learning @ Home during this period of uncertainty. This site is specifically aimed at guiding and supporting pupils in their distance learning and finding the answers to questions they may have regarding the use of technology such as Google Classrooms, Flipgrid, HWB and other platforms. It is intended to help promote more confident, independent learners. This area will become even more relevant when we return to school and continue the process of 'blended learning'.
We're back!
Cynffig welcomed students back to school in-full following the enforced national lock-down period. It has been wonderful to see so many return with enthusiasm. We believe the past weeks have been a success and have proven our capability to operate comparatively safely and effectively under social distancing measures. We are constantly updating our operating procedures to ensure compliance with the national and local governmental health and safety guidelines.
Please be sure to visit our dedicated Covid-19 area for specific and important information regarding coronavirus.
