Inspiring Pupils at Cwmlai Primary School

Friday 10th April 2026

Trade Centre Wales continues to strengthen its commitment to local communities through its growing Community Engagement Programme, with former rugby star Gareth “Alfie” Thomas once again bringing inspiration directly into the classroom.

This week Alfie visited Cwmlai Primary School in Tonyrefail, where he spent the day working with pupils across multiple year groups. Known for his honesty, energy and powerful life lessons, Alfie quickly became a favourite guest among both pupils and staff.

During the visit, Gareth spent time in several classes, speaking particularly with the older pupils about resilience and learning how to deal with setbacks. Many of the discussions focused on how young people can respond positively when things do not go their way — whether in school, sport, or everyday life.

Sharing his own experiences, Alfie spoke openly about failure and why it should never be feared.

“Failure is the quickest route to success,” he told the pupils. “When and if you fail, you learn from that. Accept failure, understand it, and then move on from it. Every setback teaches you something that makes you stronger.”

The message resonated strongly with the older students, many of whom have been learning about perseverance and dealing with challenges. The session encouraged pupils to see mistakes not as something negative, but as part of the journey toward improvement and confidence.

With the younger children, the visit took on a more relaxed and creative tone. Alfie spent time reading stories with them and engaging in classroom discussions, helping to build confidence in reading while creating a fun and memorable experience for the pupils.

The visit forms part of Trade Centre Wales’ wider commitment to supporting schools and young people across the region, helping to inspire the next generation through positive role models and real-life experiences.

Mark Bailey, Founder and Director of Trade Centre Wales, said the programme reflects the company’s dedication to giving back to the communities it serves.

“Our Community Engagement Programme is something we’re incredibly proud of. Having Gareth involved allows us to bring powerful life lessons into local schools in a way that children really connect with. His honesty, positivity, and willingness to share his experiences make a real impact on young people, and visits like this show just how important it is for businesses to support and engage with their communities.”

Trade Centre Wales plans to continue expanding the programme, with more school visits and community initiatives scheduled throughout the year.