Over the past month, Abergavenny Town Council has been engaging with Year 5 pupils across four of the town’s primary schools, inviting them to think creatively and critically about the future of their community.

The Mayor of Abergavenny, Cllr Philip Bowyer, alongside Principal Officer Sandra Rosser and Community Support and Engagement Officer Jax Postoyalko, visited classrooms to set pupils a practical civic challenge.

Each group was tasked with allocating a hypothetical £10,000 budget. Pupils were asked to develop three ideas to improve Abergavenny, explain how they would distribute the funding, and consider what risks their projects might face — along with potential solutions.

The responses demonstrated impressive thoughtfulness and imagination. Suggestions ranged from enhancing leisure facilities and green spaces to initiatives supporting environmental protection and vulnerable members of the community.

The sessions also provided an opportunity for pupils to learn more about how the Town Council operates. The Mayor fielded a wide range of questions, from how the council is structured to its history and responsibilities, giving pupils valuable insight into local government.

To conclude each visit, pupils were invited to experience Abergavenny’s civic traditions first-hand, trying on the historic Council gowns, wearing the Chains of Office and carrying the Mace.

The enthusiasm, curiosity and sense of responsibility shown by the pupils were truly encouraging. With such engaged young people, the future of Abergavenny looks bright.