A Parent’s Perspective: Growing Up at Llandovery College

My daughter will be starting Year 8 in September 2026, but our journey with Llandovery College actually began much earlier. She joined the Nursery when she was just ten months old, so the College has been a constant part of her life and our family's story for almost twelve years.

When we were first looking for childcare and, later, a school, we wanted somewhere that would nurture her as an individual, provide an excellent education and give her opportunities to discover her interests and talents. From our very first visit, there was a genuine warmth about the College. The staff knew every child, there was a real sense of community, and it felt like somewhere children could flourish academically while also being happy and confident.

Having experienced every stage of the College, from Nursery through to the Senior School, I believe what makes Llandovery College different is the way it genuinely knows and values every pupil. It is a school with high expectations, but those expectations are matched with exceptional pastoral care. Children are encouraged to be ambitious, resilient and kind, and they are supported every step of the way.

One aspect that has particularly impressed me is the individual support provided to every child. With the College's encouragement and guidance, my daughter was assessed in Year 3 and diagnosed with dyslexia and dyspraxia. That assessment enabled us to understand how she learns best, and since then the College has been incredibly proactive in ensuring she receives the additional support she needs to succeed.

The Learning Support team has worked closely with both our daughter and us as parents, making practical adjustments that have made a real difference to her education. Whether that is providing coloured overlays, adapting teaching approaches or ensuring she has access to the resources she needs, the College has always focused on helping her reach her full potential. Rather than allowing her additional learning needs to become barriers, staff have recognised her strengths and adapted their approach so she can learn with confidence. As a parent, knowing that this level of personalised support is available has been invaluable.

The breadth of opportunities available has been one of the greatest benefits for our daughter. She has developed not only academically but also through music, drama, sport and leadership opportunities. The College encourages children to step outside their comfort zone, try new experiences and develop confidence in themselves.

Year 7 has been a wonderful example of how the College celebrates every child's talents. Our daughter was honoured to receive awards for both acting and enterprise at the end of the academic year. These achievements reflected not only her hard work but also the encouragement and opportunities provided by the College to explore her interests and develop her confidence. Watching her grow into a self-assured young person who is willing to embrace new challenges has been incredibly rewarding.

The academic provision is excellent, but what really sets the College apart is that success is measured in far more than examination results. The pastoral care is outstanding, communication with families is excellent, and there is a genuine partnership between school and parents. Staff know their pupils as individuals and celebrate each child's unique achievements.

The co-curricular programme is another real strength. Whether a child enjoys sport, performing arts, outdoor education, music or academic enrichment, there is something to inspire every pupil. Our daughter has embraced many opportunities that have helped build her confidence, independence and resilience—qualities that will remain with her long after she leaves school. One particularly memorable highlight this year was seeing the dedication of the teaching staff in preparing pupils for the National Urdd Eisteddfod. Their enthusiasm, commitment and coaching enabled the children to achieve an outstanding second place in the Grŵp Llefaru Dysgwyr competition. It was a remarkable achievement on a national stage and a wonderful example of the College inspiring pupils to strive for excellence while working together as a team.

Although our daughter is a day pupil, she has always felt part of a close-knit College community. The friendships between day pupils and boarders, together with the inclusive atmosphere across the school, create a strong sense of belonging that extends well beyond the classroom.

If I were speaking to a family considering Llandovery College for the first time, I would simply say that this is a place where children are genuinely known, cared for and encouraged to become the very best version of themselves. It is a school that develops character as much as academic ability, where children are given the confidence to dream big, work hard and discover what they are capable of.

After almost twelve years as part of the College community, I can honestly say that choosing Llandovery College was one of the best decisions we have made as a family. It has provided our daughter with an outstanding education, lifelong friendships, wonderful opportunities and, most importantly, a place where she has always felt valued, supported and happy. I would wholeheartedly recommend the College to any family looking for an environment where their child will be challenged, nurtured and inspired to flourish.