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South Wales Argus
01-08-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Bakery with 10 flavours of Welsh cakes opens in Caerphilly
Bethan Greenslade, 25, has opened Cwtch Bakes in Caerphilly's Ffos Caerffili container market, bringing a fresh twist to the traditional Welsh cake with more than 10 unique flavours. Ms Greenslade, who grew up in Cardiff, said: "Visitors really love the chocolate orange. "Obviously, the traditional Welsh cake is a top seller too, but visitors have really embraced the variety on offer." With nearly a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, she has worked as a waitress and barista across both chain and independent businesses. However, baking has been her passion since childhood, inspired by her mother and grandmother. She went on to study bakery at Cardiff and Vale College before enrolling at the University of South Wales in 2019 to pursue a business degree. Ms Greenslade said: "I went through multiple names, but I wanted something warm, comforting and Welsh. "I said Cwtch Bakes for the first time one day and didn't look back." The idea to set up shop in Caerphilly came during a visit to Ffos Caerffili last summer with her boyfriend, who encouraged her to take the leap. She said: "My boyfriend turned to me and said that I should be here, and I just thought, what are you waiting for?" Ms Greenslade credits her family and boyfriend for motivating her to take the next step. She said: "My family and boyfriend really encouraged me to go for it and played a massive part in me coming to Ffos." Within just her first week at the market, she has already received an order for wedding favours. She said: "I'm really loving life here, and I've already been approached for a wedding favour in my first week." Ms Greenslade joins a growing community of young businesswomen at Ffos Caerffili, including Bethan Davies of JoyHouse Creations, Rebecca Goad of Bonnie's focaccia sandwich brand, and Karen Lam of Karen L's Creation handmade jewellery. Cwtch Bakes is located at Unit 10 in Ffos Caerffili and is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. For more information about business opportunities at Ffos Caerffili, contact management at hello@
Wales Online
16-06-2025
- Politics
- Wales Online
Let me tell you why Pride matters, 40 years after the first parade in Wales
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Sharon James-Evans, is principal of Cardiff and Vale College and a gay woman Every year I look forward to Pride Month. It's not just to celebrate the progress we've made but to remind myself that, even in moments of joy, we have to stay vigilant. Pride has always been both a celebration and a prompt —a moment to rejoice, but also a call to action and a time to speak out. This year marks the 26th anniversary of the largest not-for-profit LGBTQ+ organisation in Wales, which will host over 50,000 people in a weekend of celebration and solidarity. It promises to be a wonderful event, but beyond the parades and festivities, it's also a reminder of the work still to be done. Everything you need to know about Pride Cymru's weekend in Cardiff is here. As a gay woman, Pride means so much more than just a celebration of who we are. It's a direct response to the ever-present danger of regression affecting many in our society, especially at a time when there is a rising tide of anti LGBTQ+ legislation is particularly affecting transgender people in the United States. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here And it's not just about trans people. The fight for trans rights is fundamentally a fight for all human rights. It echoes the same ideals that have driven other liberation movements—whether it's for racial justice, women's rights, or disability rights. At its core, the trans rights movement is about autonomy, self-determination, freedom from violence, and the ability to live without societal limitations. Indeed, I find myself increasingly concerned by what's unfolding in the United States. The attack on transgender rights and the larger LGBTQ+ community there is rippling outward, affecting not just Americans, but people all over the world. It has the potential to become a dangerous export. (Image: Matthew Horwood) Meanwhile, here in the UK, the latest Home Office data shows that transphobic hate crimes increased by 186% between 2018 and 2023. It's not right, and it's not fair. In Cardiff, where I'll be marching with my colleagues at Pride, the realities of these issues feel particularly pressing. Diversity, inclusion, and community are core values at the very heart of our Cardiff and Vale College, and I'm proud that we represent one of the most vibrant and diverse communities in Wales. As Wales' largest college, we prioritise diversity and inclusivity for our staff and our learners, and we are proud of our thriving and caring community. Our LGBTQ+ Staff Network is a safe space for staff to connect, share experiences, and support one another, enabling cross departmental collaboration and friendships to grow thus promoting an inclusive culture. There is no place for any anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric. In fact, we hold the prestigious Leaders in Diversity status, and we are previous winners of the Association of Colleges (AoC) UK-wide Beacon Award. That's testament to our innovative work to embrace equality and inclusion. We also hold a WorldSkills UK Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador Award and we are second on the NCFD's Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces. This is important because research from Stonewall has shown that LGBTQ+ workers are increasingly prioritising diversity in their workplace. Three-quarters of LGBTQ+ workers want to work for companies that actively support inclusion. Yet despite this demand, bullying and harassment are still rampant in many sectors, with 49% of LGBTQ+ workers reporting unwanted sexual comments or being undermined due to their identity. Even more concerning, one in five LGBTQ+ workers contemplate leaving their job due to lack of LGBTQ+ inclusion efforts. That's why we celebrate Pride not only as a symbol of who we are but as a rallying cry for action. This is a time for solidarity, not just in marches but in real, everyday actions. As a country, we should be proud to be a safe space where people can live openly, with acceptance and without fear of judgment. We're reminded of the words of German pastor Martin Niemöller, who warned of the dangers of staying silent in the face of injustice. In his famous poem 'First They Came…', he reflects on how failing to speak out when others are targeted ultimately leaves no one to defend us when we become the target. It's a powerful message for us all. When trans rights are attacked, it is not only a trans issue—it is a human issue. Silence in the face of discrimination allows oppression to grow unchecked. We must remember that the LGBTQ+ community, including trans people, are like all people - multifaceted, with complex lives, rich relationships, careers, and communities. The struggles they face are a direct result of the prejudice, violence, and barriers that society continues to put in their way. Our collective responsibility is to remove those barriers—whether that's standing up against discrimination, advocating for better healthcare access, or simply being an ally in our workplaces and communities. Pride is our collective voice—loud, visible, and resolute in saying: we will not be silent. It's about wanting to be part of a multi-cultural and fully inclusive society and creating a world where trans people, and all LGBTQ+ people, can live freely, fully, and safely together.
Wales Online
01-05-2025
- Wales Online
The four serious, common problems in colleges in Wales
The four serious, common problems in colleges in Wales Absenteeism, lateness, social media misuse, and vaping are becoming "widespread" issues in FE colleges in Wales, said education watchdog Estyn Cardiff and Vale College Cardiff & Vale College addresses behavioural and disciplinary issues through a clear three-stage process, said inspectors (Image: Phil Boorman Photography Ltd ) Colleges in Wales face "increasing behavioural challenges" from students, says education watchdog Estyn. Absenteeism, lateness. social media misuse, and vaping are becoming "widespread". More serious issues like sexual harassment and substance misuse are less frequent, but remain "a concern", the Wales-wide schools inspection body says in a report into behaviour in Wales' further education colleges , published on May 1. The Estyn report follows widespread alarm about worsening behaviour and violence in schools. Now that problem seems to be evident in colleges too - both among teenagers on courses for those aged 14 to 16 and for post-16 courses. Estyn's report highlights how behaviour varies across learner groups. It says male learners on vocational courses such as construction "are more likely to demonstrate inappropriate behaviour" . This includes "using inappropriate language towards female learners, often driven by an effort to fit in or assert dominance in predominantly male environments". Inspectors found that neurodivergent and marginalised learners are at increased risk of bullying and harassment. Estyn recommends that colleges beef up support for these "vulnerable" learners. The inspectorate said clearer national guidance and targeted strategies is needed, particularly to address the misuse of social media and vaping. The report follows thousands of incidents in schools including stabbings and teachees being stamped on - you can read more about that here. Owen Evans is Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales Article continues below "While many (college) learners engage positively and respectfully with their college communities, persistent negative behaviours and emerging trends continue to impact learning environments," inspectors found. After visits to seven colleges, national surveys of staff and learners, and consultations Estyn compiled its report 'Learner Behaviour in Further Education Colleges: Understanding, Supporting and Promoting Positive Behaviour' . The doeument looks at how colleges promote positive behaviour, support staff, and respond to what Estyn describes as "the complex needs of learners". You can get more story updates straight to your inbox by subscribing to our newsletters here. Inspectors said they found that the legacy of the pandemic continues to affect learners' behaviour and staff well-being. "Many young people – especially those on lower-level courses – are struggling with social skills and resilience. This, in turn, places pressure on staff, many of whom report heightened stress and a need for more support to manage behavioural disruptions effectively and protect their well-being," the report said. Owen Evans, Chief Inspector of education and training in Wales and head of Estyn, said the "growing complexity of behavioural issues facing colleges" must not be overlooked and that long term investment was needed to "create inclusive, respectful and safe learning environments for all". While most negative behaviours were low-level, several common issues emerged across the seven colleges inspectors went to, Estyn said. Staff reported non-attendance and poor punctuality as one of their top three behavioural challenges as well as students not paying attention. There was also inappropriate use of mobile phones with learners recording and sharing content during class. and vaping and smoking: frequently seen near entrances and, in some cases, inside buildings. Social media misuse, such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content sharing, and disrespectful interactions, was "a recurring concern". Though rare, Estyn listerd these "more concerning behaviours" Peer-on-peer abuse: Such as sexual harassment or coercive control. Physical altercations: Often linked to external conflicts brought into the college. Theft: Particularly in communal areas such as refectories. Substance misuse: Cannabis was the most common concern. Misogynistic attitudes: Influenced by high profile social media figures, leading to disrespectful behaviours towards female learners. "Influences from controversial social media figures were particularly evident in male-dominated courses, where inappropriate behaviours towards female learners occurred," the report warned. Staff noted that serious incidents involved a small number of learners. These incidents were often linked to individual circumstances, external factors, or unresolved personal conflicts. Vaping, in particular, emerged as a pervasive issue, with learners vaping frequently during breaks or between lessons, Estyn said. "Many perpetrators came from multiple disadvantaged backgrounds, including low- income families, disrupted homes, or with ALN. Students from poorer socio- economic areas or those with ACEs exhibited higher levels of disruptive behaviour," they said "These learners, often lacking emotional maturity, exhibited negative behaviours, sometimes driven by peer pressure, a sense of entitlement, or lack of accountability. Negative behaviour was more prominent in level 1 courses where in many cases, emotional maturity was still developing." A staff survey highlighted that refusal to respond to staff member requests was also a common issue. Bridgend College, Cardiff and the Vale College, Coleg Cambria, Coleg Gwent, Coleg Sir Gar, Pembrokeshire College and St David's Catholic Sixth Form College Further education all took part in the report. All had useful measures to tackle behaviour and these were also cited by inspectors. These include Bridgend College hosting support fairs bringing in outside agencies such as "Lads and Dads" as well groups working in sexual health, substance and alcohol use. Pembrokeshire College has an onsite youth worker and St David's College staff try to model good behaviour with initiatives such as meeting and greeting students, recognising positive conduct and a restorative approach to problems. Estyn said Cardiff and Vale College addresses behavioural and disciplinary issues through a clear three-stage process focussing on early intervention, with at-risk students identified, clearer consequences, consistent responses to poor behaviour and possible outcomes outlined including suspension and exclusion. But while many colleges offer staff training in behaviour management and trauma-informed approaches, implementation is often inconsistenr, Estyn said, Funding is a problem. Inspectors said colleges rely heavily on short-term funding, which limits their ability to have consistent policies, and keep experienced to address behaviour issues. The report make a series of recommendations including that funding body Medr considers how FE funding can support long-term investment in behaviour management systems and the retention of skilled staff. The Welsh Government is holding a summit on behaviour in schools this month following widespread issues, including the stabbing of two teachers and a pupil at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman in Ammanford, Carmarthenshire. The girl, aged 13 at the time, was last week has been detained for 15 years for attempted murder. Staff at some schools have also walked out in rows over behaviour. In one case a teacher locked her class in the classroom because a pupil was being threatened by another child outside. Staff and pupils have reported physical and verbal violence. The Welsh Government said: 'Behaviour is a key indicator of learner engagement and we are working closely with Medr to support Further Education colleges to develop a consistent and effective approach to learner behaviour. 'FE Colleges are part of our wider programme of work including a roundtable this month on safety in schools and colleges and a National Behaviour Summit. 'Individual FE colleges have their own policies on attendance and behaviour – these often include policies on vaping and acceptable use of social media. We do not waver from our prioritisation of improving attendance, for both pre- and post-16 learners.' Article continues below
