Education is a cornerstone of children and young people’s experiences. Young people should feel fully informed to make decisions based on what education choices and funding are available to them. Young people can also contribute to shaping the future of education by sharing feedback about their experiences.
Education is a devolved issue in Wales. Local authorities are responsible for primary and secondary education. The Commission for Tertiary Education and Research (since renamed Medr), operational from August 2024, is responsible for all post-16 education and research in Wales. The Welsh Government influences education in Wales through its coordinated work with local authorities. For example, a key focus is to increase the number of school year groups who receive their education through the medium of Welsh, with the aim of increasing the number of Welsh speakers to 1 million by 2050.
Education is central to the improvement of the lives of young people, and it is important for you to know what different education and career options are available to you in the future. You can have a say in the education you experience by getting involved in student voice opportunities such as school councils, and giving feedback to educators. You can suggest ways education could work better for you by getting in touch with local councils and the Senedd. If you have concerns, ideas or questions that affect your school or college, they have a responsibility to listen to your feedback. Find out who is responsible for participation in your school or college, and what channels your educational institution uses for feedback from young people. If you want to make suggestions or challenge decisions made by the Senedd, you can connect with the Children’s Commissioner to find out more about how to make change, or contact your Member of Senedd.
The first Member of the Welsh Youth Parliament representing Race Council Cymru. Angel made impactful contributions to call for Black and People of Colour’s histories to be part of Wales’s school curriculum.
Marcus’s highest profile impact was influencing the UK Government to extend free school meals for children. He also raised the profile of the issue in the media and public leading to a national conversation about food poverty.
Poppy is a strong advocate for equality, social justice and human rights. She’s a passionate climate change activist and considers herself as an internationalist, believing countries should work together.
Greta’s peaceful protests inspired a worldwide youth movement, got politicians to engage with climate change issues, and improved public awareness. Her impact has been called the ‘Greta effect.’
