A partnership between youth work provision and secondary schools
in Blaenau Gwent is making positive strides in improving pupils'
school attendance.
With dedicated Youth Workers in all secondary schools in the
borough, the Blaenau Gwent Youth Service 11-16 team provides
vital one-on-one and group support, tailored to individual needs.
They are making significant progress in improving the school
attendance of young people referred to the project.
During half term this week a group of young people aged 11-16
have been enjoying a residential course at the Summit Centre in
Treharris, taking part in confidence boosting activities such as
climbing and caving.
Summer, 15, who attends Brynmawr Foundation School is a member of
the youth group and was learning how to rock climb at the Summit
Centre.
She said:
“Before I started youth club there were days when I didn't want
to go to school because of people or subjects. My attendance was
down in the 80s.
“But going to youth club on a Monday night has really helped with
my confidence and behaviour and talking to the youth workers made
me realise it was important to attend school for my whole future,
not just for my education.”
The Cabinet Secretary for Education, said:
“Youth work provides far more than just activities – it creates
safe spaces where young people can truly flourish and reach their
full potential.
“I'm delighted to see the impact this scheme is having in Blaenau
Gwent, not only in improving school attendance, but also
enhancing young people's wellbeing and confidence. It is giving
young people a voice and helping them make positive choices and
seize opportunities that will shape their futures."
Councillor Sue Edmunds, Blaenau Gwent Council's Cabinet Member
for People & Education said:
“We are on a journey, working with our schools and partners, to
improve attendance here in Blaenau Gwent. The role of youth
workers in our schools is absolutely fundamental in helping young
people to attend and to achieve, as well as being a trusted
person to listen to them and provide support and advice.”
Youth work plays a key role within the wider education sector. As
well as helping to improve school attendance it can ensure young
people are happy and fulfilled, supported and safe, and are able
to access support when they need it from a trusted adult.
Youth workers are uniquely placed to engage young people in
discussions around risky behaviour and often act as the bridge
into more specialist support.
Welsh Government will provide over £11.4m to local authorities
through the Youth Support Grant in 2025-26 to support youth work
provision across Wales.
