Aberwla: Learning Welsh through virtual reality

Adnodd funds free download of a groundbreaking virtual reality (VR) resource for learning Welsh.

Screenshot of a virtual reality Welsh language learning environment. A character stands on a farm path with fields, trees, and fences in the background. On-screen text shows a Welsh sentence and multiple-choice options for translation or grammar practice. A blue pointer highlights the sentence “Does 'na ddim iâr?” and a purple button labelled “Cadarnhau” (Confirm) is below. Sgrinlun o amgylchedd rhithwir ar gyfer dysgu’r Gymraeg. Mae cymeriad yn sefyll ar lwybr fferm gyda chaeau, coed a ffensys yn y cefndir. Mae testun ar y sgrin yn dangos brawddeg Gymraeg a dewisiadau lluosog ar gyfer ymarfer cyfieithu neu ramadeg. Mae pwyntydd glas yn amlygu’r frawddeg “Does 'na ddim iâr?” ac mae botwm porffor o dan y testun gyda’r gair “Cadarnhau”.

Aberwla is a Welsh-language virtual village for all learners, immersing them in the Welsh language through VR. Users learn through undertaking a range of activities including shopping, taking café orders, solving puzzles, and more.

Aberwla also includes mini-games that help learners develop their Welsh vocabulary, grammar, and confidence in a fun and supportive environment.

Learn more through the videos and case study below.

Aleighcia Scott in Aberwla

Musician and broadcaster Aleighcia Scott explores Aberwla’s immersive virtual village, showcasing Welsh VR learning in action.

Watch this video on YouTube

Embracing technology for Welsh Language Immersion

Estyn‘s video highlights Aberwla’s impact on Welsh language immersion, featuring practitioner testimonials and evidence of effective digital learning for schools.

Watch this video on YouTube

Aberwla

Learn more about Aberwla, a Welsh-language virtual village for all learners, immersing them in the Welsh language through VR.

Watch this video on YouTube

Video length: 1:33

Two photos show schoolchildren taking part in a VR activity indoors, with some wearing VR headsets and others watching, standing in front of Adnodd banners. | Mae dau lun yn dangos disgyblion yn cymryd rhan mewn gweithgaredd realiti rhithwir dan do, gyda rhai yn gwisgo setiau VR ac eraill yn gwylio, o flaen baneri Adnodd.

We ran a hands-on Aberwla workshop demonstrating how VR supports Welsh language learning, builds learner confidence, and enhances classroom engagement through immersive activities.

“A big thank you to Adnodd and Animated Technologies for the workshop introducing us to the VR headset and encouraging us to create new characters for Aberwla. We love using our Welsh when travelling through Aberwla and are very excited to use this fantastic resource!”

Language Immersion Centre, Ysgol Gyfun Gwent Is Coed, Newport

Learn more through the promotional video below and the Hwb website, where you’ll be able to download it for free.