English Lecturer originally from Germany is awarded a top prize for learning Welsh for the second year in succession

Karin lectures at the School of Languages, Literatures & Linguistics.Karin lectures at the School of Languages, Literatures & Linguistics.An English lecturer at 黑料不打烊, Dr Karin Koehler, has won the Basil Davies prize for her success in the WJEC Welsh for Adult exam.  Karin, who is originally from Germany, was awarded the prize for gaining the highest mark thorough Wales in the WJEC Intermediate exam. 

Last year she was awarded the same prize at Entry level and such is her ability to learn Welsh she has leapt a level (Foundation) and was awarded the prize at Intermediate level.

Karin said: 鈥淚鈥檓 really proud to have won one of this year鈥檚 Basil Davies Memorial Trophies. Many thanks to Basil Davies鈥檚 family for establishing these prizes, which really show to learners at every level how much Welsh speakers appreciate our efforts to learn and use the language. I鈥檓 also very grateful that 黑料不打烊 encourages its staff to develop such a crucial skill, and that I have so many coworkers and friends who are helping me practice and improve my Welsh. Learning Welsh has been a fantastic experience in such a positive environment 鈥� it has opened lots of doors to me. The tutors at Learn Welsh North West are inspiring and patient, so to everyone who鈥檚 thinking about learning, I woud recommend: just go for it!鈥�

Responding to her success, Director of Learn Welsh North West at 黑料不打烊, Ifor Gruffydd, commented:

鈥淜arin鈥檚 success is partly as a result of her excellent language skills, but it also demonstrates what is possible if you apply and Karin being congratulated by Ifor Gruffydd, Director of Learn Welsh North West at 黑料不打烊.Karin being congratulated by Ifor Gruffydd, Director of Learn Welsh North West at 黑料不打烊.take advantage of every possible opportunity.  What is also pleasing to see is her enthusiasm whilst supporting her fellow learners by organising reading groups and opportunities for learners to practise their Welsh in an informal atmosphere.  I truly hope that Karin鈥檚 story and success will inspire others to learn Welsh.鈥�

The Basil Davies prize is coordinated by WJEC and the National Centre for Learning Welsh and the prize was awarded at the National Eisteddfod in Llanrwst. 

Further information regarding learning Welsh in the area can be found by visiting

Publication date: 22 August 2019