Hubbub, the vintage-style store on Stanwell Road run by Ysgol Y Deri, is celebrating its first year in Penarth after a successful year supporting young people with additional learning needs.

The town centre shop provides a real-life retail environment where current and former pupils can gain valuable work experience, helping them develop confidence, independence and practical employment skills. Since opening, Hubbub has supported 25 pupils, with even more expected to take part during the current academic year.

The store sells donated pre-loved items alongside products from local makers, while pupils also create and sell their own products as part of vocational learning sessions. Partnerships with local businesses have given students opportunities to learn new skills, including ceramics and candle making.

The project was established by Stacey Long, Curriculum Lead for Careers and Work-related Experiences at Ysgol Y Deri, after learning that only four per cent of adults with additional learning needs in Wales are in paid employment. She said: “Our first year of Hubbub has exceeded all expectations. It has become a space where our pupils can thrive, grow in confidence and learn real-life skills that could help them move towards employment in the future.”

She also thanks the Penarth community, local businesses and organisations that have supported the project over the past year.