Sophie Morris – The First of Our Welsh Champions 2026
We are proud to introduce the first of our Welsh Champions for 2026 – a woman whose journey with the Welsh language has come full circle. Not only did Sophie Morris become a fluent Welsh speaker after leaving school, but she has now returned to her former comprehensive school to teach Welsh and inspire the next generation.
Born and raised in Tredegar in a non‑Welsh-speaking family, Sophie’s love for the Welsh language began in secondary school under the inspirational guidance of her Welsh teacher, Rob Hughes. His passion for the language and its culture left a lasting impression.
“Rob was so passionate. He would just speak Welsh to me all the time. I wanted to be like him – to speak our mother tongue and truly understand what it means to be Welsh.”
Inspired, Sophie chose to study Welsh at A Level before going on to UWIC, where she completed both a Welsh degree and a teaching qualification, entirely through the medium of Welsh.
“I love being able to speak my own language. How amazing is it that I can speak a language people tried to kill off? It’s allowed me to fully connect with my roots and with who I am.”
Sophie was the only person in her family who spoke Welsh at the time. When she told her parents she wanted to study a Welsh degree, they were puzzled.
“‘Why would you want to do that?’ they asked. And I said, ‘Because I love it. I want to teach it.’”
A pivotal experience during school was a trip led by Rob Hughes around North Wales, including visits to Nant Gwrtheyrn and other historic landmarks.
“Seeing it, learning about it – this history under our feet that isn’t always taught in schools – it was incredible. Welsh is more than love spoons and rugby.”
Through exploring Welsh history, Sophie also discovered her own Welsh-speaking ancestors, deepening her sense of connection.
Back to where it began
Sophie now teaches Welsh at Tredegar High School, the very school where her journey began. Her pupils benefit from the same passion that once inspired her.
“The enthusiasm has filtered down from Rob, through my own journey, and now into my classroom.”
Under Rob Hughes’ leadership, over 70 pupils continued their Welsh language learning, many of whom now work in Welsh-language roles. Sophie describes the department as “truly inspiring”.
She is now Assistant Head of Bilingualism, working alongside Rob Hughes, and has played a key role in transforming Welsh culture across the school.
A Thriving Community
The school now has 31 members in its Criw Cymraeg, delivering assemblies, competitions, and Urdd involvement. Last year, a Year 7 pupil won a Wales-wide Urdd design competition.
Weekly initiatives include:
- Phrase of the Week (chosen by pupils)
- Welsh-language videos sent to all form groups
- Siarad Cymraeg points for speaking Welsh anywhere in school
- A weekly top‑10 Siaradwyr Cymraeg email (leaderboard)
“Year 9 boys are fiercely competitive! All they need to do is say ‘Shwmae’, but it’s grown into full conversations.”
Looking Ahead
The school has already achieved Bronze and Silver Welsh Language Awards, and Sophie is now driving the push for Gold, working with funding support and partners including Sarah McAuley (AS) (EAS). Plans are also underway to introduce Say Something in Welsh, alongside creative classroom resources and staff challenges to increase everyday Welsh use across the school.
A True Welsh Champion
Graduating in 2014, Sophie’s career included roles at Lewis Boys, Cowbridge, St Cenydd High, and Corpus Christi. Her first permanent post was as Head of Year at Abersychan (2017–2025). She joined Tredegar High (Comprehensive School) in September and has already made a remarkable impact.
“I can relate to these pupils. They see my journey, and it makes them believe they can do it too.”
Meeting Sophie and seeing the work she is doing is nothing short of inspiring. She is living proof that language is not just something we learn – it is something we reclaim, protect, and pass on.
A true Welsh Champion for 2026.
If you’d like to nominate an individual or group for the 2026 Welsh Champions Honours List, we’d love to hear from you!
Please send us their details along with a short explanation of why you believe they deserve this recognition to Cymraeg@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk, and we’ll be in touch. Let’s celebrate those who make a difference!