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WNS 110826 DMSTE-2

Chair announced for Welsh higher education review

  • Professor Patrick Prendergast has been announced as chair of the independent review of higher education in Wales.
  • The review will examine how higher education in Wales is funded and organised.
  • Professor Prendergast will be supported by a small panel of experts in higher education policy, finance and governance.
Anna Brychan cropped

“We owe it to current and future generations to get literacy and numeracy right” - Education Minister

  • New Foundational Literacy and Numeracy plan published with 0-16 age focus 
  • Plan is first step in commitment to raising standards and responds to education workforce concerns 
  • Introduction of national indicators for literacy and numeracy, and new baseline assessment for school starters 

New national indicators, a baseline assessment for when children start school and guidance for teachers on what learners should be learning and when, have been outlined in a new Foundational Literacy and Numeracy plan published today (15th September).

First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth and Finance Minister Elin Jones at the Radyr Tap with owner Phil Newbould

30% business rates cut for high street hospitality and leisure venues

  • Wealth of venues across Wales to see business rates cut by 30% from 1 April 2027.
  • Small and medium-sized businesses with a rateable value below £51,000 to benefit with change fully funded.
  • First Minister: This gives businesses “the confidence to invest, grow and keep serving the communities that rely on them.”