I WOULD like to congratulate all Barry and Vale of Glamorgan pupils who received their A and AS-levels and Welsh Baccalaureate results last week, and to wish all GCSE pupils receiving their results today, the very best of luck.

It was extremely encouraging to hear that more than 98 per cent of pupils across Barry and Bryn Hafren Comprehensive Schools achieved an A*-E grade at A-level, and Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg saw a pass rate of 100 per cent for A-level pupils for the second year running. These are truly fantastic achievements.

My warmest congratulations go to all pupils, teachers, staff and parents for their inspiring hard work, commitment and support.

I wish our Vale young people the very best as they make decisions about their futures and embark on their next steps. Support and advice can be found on the Careers Wales website careerswales.com/en/

Last week, the Welsh Government launched a consultation on its strategy to tackle violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence.

We are strongly committed to challenging abusive behaviour, believing that everybody has the right to live fear free. Last year the Welsh Government’s Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (Wales) Bill received Royal Assent and became an Act-seeking to improve protection, prevention and support for people affected by violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence.

The cabinet secretary for communities and children Carl Sargeant AM said: “To enable us to prevent violence and abuse in the future, we have to focus on children, to make sure they understand what constitutes a healthy relationship and how to recognise symptoms of unhealthy relationships. So far, we have published A Whole Education Approach Good Practice Guide, produced by Welsh Women’s Aid and awareness raising guidance for School governors.”

Consultations allow relevant organisations and individuals with an interest in the area being consulted on, to have their say and input into policy making. This particular consultation on domestic violence will close on October 10 and further information can be found on the Welsh Government website.