Welsh Translation Graduation Success

Glyndŵr University has celebrated its first Welsh Translation graduates. The Welsh Translation foundation degree is the only course of its type in the UK and last week’s graduation ceremonies at the University saw the first graduates from this course.

The demand for Welsh speakers and the accurate translation of the Welsh language led the University to develop the course. Sarah Gaffney, one of the graduates said: “The course has not only taught us how to translate but has also given us a new confidence in speaking Welsh. This course will really help me in my job as it will enable me to help others working with the Welsh language. I’m sure the demand for this course will continue as bilingualism is an important priority for Wales.”

The course was launched by Glyndŵr University after Welsh Assembly research revealed demand for interpreters had rocketed in recent years. The course is aimed at Welsh speakers who, although not employed as translators, are asked to provide Welsh translations for English language documents. Stephanie Mainwaring from Ellesmere said “The lecturer has been really supportive and encouraging. We have been working on live translation work which has involved translation for a variety of purposes including experiencing technical translation.”

The graduates all studied part-time which involved attending the University once a week for two years in the University’s dedicated translation facility. The areas covered have included Welsh language skills, editing skills, the principles of translation and technical translation, as well as covering the topics of literary Welsh and Welsh terminology.

Rosemary Ralphes from Tallarn Green enjoyed the support and friendship she received from the study group.She said: “We have all supported each other along the way and have built-up friendships that will last beyond us graduating today.” Fellow student Carol Parry-Davies said: “It has been an interesting experience all learning together, as we all have different dialects of Welsh and had knowledge of different aspects. We’ve all been spurred on to continue our studies and continue to develop our translation skills.”

Pictured above are Stephanie Mainwaring, Julie Brake (Welsh Translation senior lecturer), Carol-Parry-Davies, Rosemary Ralphes and Sarah Gaffney.