Overview

The Hanes Protest Nghymru course, delivered at the Dove Workshop in Bawnen by our experienced and knowledgeable tutor, Catherine Davies, offers an engaging and accessible exploration of key protests and movements that have shaped modern Wales. It looks at important events such as the Penrhyn quarrymen’s protests and the miners’ strike of 1984–85, as well as the campaign to save Capel Celyn village in the Tryweryn Valley. The history of Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg is covered, tracing its challenges and successes up to the present day. Learners have also explored the fight for the establishment of S4C, the development of devolution, and the growth of Yes Cymru.

A key feature of the Hanes Protest Nghymru course is its interactive approach, encouraging learners to share their own experiences and stories. The causes, events, and outcomes of these protests are examined in detail, with a special focus on the often-overlooked role of women. The course uses a multimedia format to highlight the lasting significance of these movements and how they continue to influence Wales today.

The Hanes Protest Nghymru course has become a highly popular choice among learners.

History of protest in Wales

The history of protest in Wales reflects the strength and unity of its people in fighting for justice, cultural preservation, and workers’ rights. Events like the Penrhyn quarrymen’s strikes, the 1984–85 miners’ strike, and the Tryweryn Valley campaign shaped Wales’ identity and influenced wider social change. Today, this legacy remains relevant as Wales continues to address issues of devolution, culture, and social equality.

During the 1984-1985 Miners’ Strike, a group of women from the Dulais Valley, who supported the striking miners, formed a women’s group. They came together to talk about how the strike and its social and political impact had affected their lives. From these discussions, the group decided to create a community centre that would offer education and training for women. The centre was designed to provide free childcare, free transport, and flexible, part-time learning options. This very centre, established by women who supported the miners in their community, is now the venue where the Hanes Protest Nghymru course is delivered, the Dove Workshop.

Course Objectives and Design

The course was designed to explore key protests and movements that have shaped modern Wales, offering learners a deep understanding of their social and political impact. The course examines significant historical events such as the Penrhyn quarrymen’s protests, the 1984–85 miners’ strike, the fight to save Capel Celyn, and the establishment of S4C. Catherine Davies, drawing on her experience teaching the Welsh language—where Welsh history frequently arose—developed the course with a focus on interactivity and engagement.

Using various teaching methods such as storytelling, multimedia presentations, and group discussions, the course provides a well-rounded view of protest history. These approaches help learners understand the significance of these movements and their ongoing relevance in shaping modern Wales

The Bilingual Approach

The bilingual approach ensured accessibility for both Welsh and English speakers, creating an inclusive learning environment. Catherine Davies, who learnt Welsh as an adult, now delivers courses in both Welsh and bilingually. Her delivery of the Hanes Protest Nghymru course reflects this dual-language approach, with sessions offered in Welsh and English. At the Dove Workshop, English-medium provisions incorporate the Welsh language through teaching materials such as PowerPoint presentations, quotes, and informal discussions with Welsh speakers at varying proficiency levels, from fluent to beginner. This bilingual approach enhances learners’ knowledge, understanding, and confidence in using Welsh, fostering a supportive environment where linguistic barriers are reduced, and the cultural richness of the Welsh language is celebrated

Why the Hanes Protest?

The course was inspired by Catherine Davies’ experience teaching Welsh, where discussions about Welsh history often arose. Recognising that this rich history was frequently overlooked, she explained, “Often the history of Wales has been overlooked, and learners have not had the opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of their own country, Wales. This course has provided learners a great opportunity to do just that.” The course’s success and positive feedback led to the development of additional courses, expanding on the themes of the original course.

Feedback and Impact

Feedback from learners has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the course’s inclusive and interactive approach. Learners highlighted how it deepened their understanding of key Welsh protests and their historical significance, particularly appreciating the focus on women’s roles in these movements. Catherine Davies has received comments such as, “I found the course very interesting,” and, “I wouldn’t change a thing.” The course’s popularity is reflected in its strong attendance, with many learners returning to further explore Welsh language, history, and culture.

Most Rewarding Aspects

The most rewarding aspects of delivering the Hanes Protest Nghymru course for Catherine have been witnessing learners develop a deeper understanding of the historical significance of protests and their role in shaping both local and national identity. She has particularly valued the opportunity to highlight the often-overlooked contributions of women in these movements, providing a broader perspective on Welsh history. Additionally, Catherine has found it fulfilling to see participants pursue personal interests alongside like-minded peers, fostering a sense of community and engagement. Reflecting on the course, Catherine said, “There has historically been a lack of teaching in these areas in Wales, and the Hanes Protest and subsequent courses help to address that gap while also bringing the Welsh language into the conversation, enriching learners’ understanding of Welsh heritage and culture.”

Moving Forward

As the Hanes Protest Nghymru course evolved from Catherine’s Welsh language courses, future offerings will build on the current “Influential Women in Wales” course, which Catherine is delivering at the Dove Workshop. She plans to engage her learners in discussions about future possibilities and learning opportunities, with the aim of deepening their understanding of Welsh history, culture, and the Welsh language. Involving learners in shaping the direction of their education has proven to be both motivational and successful, helping to retain existing learners while attracting new participants to enrol.