A NEW Welsh-medium playgroup has opened its doors in Ceredigion after many months of preparation.

Based at Lampeter High School, Cylch Meithrin Pont Pedr opened its doors at the start of the term.

When it opened, nine two-year-olds started in the mornings, but since expanding to full days after half term, more than twenty children have been attending.

The official opening of the Cylch took place on Friday, November 8.

“I love leading the Cylch and seeing the children in the area thrive and develop their skills through play,” said Annwen Thomas, Cylch Meithrin Pont Pedr leader.

“It's so brilliant to see them so happy in our new Meithrin.

“We have four staff members in total; myself, Kayleigh, Abigail and Bethan, who all contribute significantly to the success of Pont Pedr.”

Annwen Thomas is the leader of Cylch Meithrin Pont Pedr.Annwen Thomas is the leader of Cylch Meithrin Pont Pedr. (Image: Ceredigion council)

“Mudiad Meithrin is overjoyed as Cylch Meithrin Pont Pedr opens its doors under the Mudiad's Set Up and Succeed scheme,” said Mudiad Meithrin establishment and movement officer Carole Williams.

“We are very grateful to a large number of residents in the area, teachers and head of Ysgol Bro Pedr, local and county councillors, parents and members of the Lampeter Family Centre for their help in developing and opening Cylch Meithrin Pontpedr.”

Gail MacDonald, from Flying Start, said: “It’s good to see that Cylch Meithrin Pont Pedr has opened.

“There was a great demand for sessional care in Lampeter and collaboration between the partners means that there is a dedicated place for children aged two-to-four-years-old to receive high quality care.

“It will be a great opportunity for pre-school children to receive interesting experiences in an effective environment with experienced staff.”

Kayleigh, Abigail, Annwen and Bethan are working at Cylch Meithrin Pont Pedr.Kayleigh, Abigail, Annwen and Bethan are working at Cylch Meithrin Pont Pedr. (Image: Ceredigion council)

Ceredigion’s cabinet member responsible for schools, lifelong learning and skills, councillor Wyn Thomas, said: “I am thrilled to announce the opening of the new Cylch Meithrin, a vibrant and nurturing environment where our youngest residents can thrive.

“This facility represents our commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education and care, ensuring that every child has the best possible start in life.

“We believe that Cylch Meithrin Pont Pedr will become a cornerstone of our community, fostering a love of learning and a sense of belonging from an early age.

“We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the children of Lampeter and surrounding areas and their families.”

If you are keen for your two-to-three-year-old children to join and register in the Cylch, contact its leader, Annwen Thomas, by emailing cmpontpedr@gmail.com. Anyone with ideas to help support the Cylch or who wants to join the activities committee is encouraged to get in touch.