Author: pencoedcomp

CyberFirst Girls Final 2026

The Debug Divas team proudly represented Pencoed Comprehensive School at the CyberFirst Girls Competition Final of Finals 2026, held at the ICC in Newport. Competing against 19 of the top schools, Amy, Gwen, Olivia-Rose and Faith, alongside Ms Densley-Adams, arrived dressed to impress and ready to take on the challenge.

From the outset, the competition tested a wide range of cyber security skills. The team tackled complex decryption challenges, used CyberChef to analyse and transform data, cracked ciphers, and worked strategically to uncover hidden flags. Their teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills were evident throughout.

By the halfway point, the Debug Divas had worked their way up the leaderboard into an impressive third place, showing their determination and capability among the very best teams.

During the competition, the team faced an unexpected setback when the WiFi went down and technical issues. Despite this, they remained calm, composed, and focused, handling the disruption with maturity and resilience. Once systems were restored, they quickly got back on track and continued to perform strongly right through to the final moments of the competition.

Their determination, dedication, and positive attitude were clear throughout the day.

Following the challenges, the atmosphere shifted as the teams prepared for the Women in Cyber Gala. This provided a fantastic opportunity to celebrate achievements at both school level and at the national “champions of champions” event. Dressed for the occasion, the Debug Divas enjoyed networking with a wide range of inspiring and talented women working across the cyber and technology industries. These conversations highlighted the many exciting opportunities available and helped inspire the next generation of women in cyber.

The evening included a three-course meal and the announcement of the competition winners. While the Debug Divas did not take the top prize this time, their performance, resilience, and teamwork were outstanding. Competing at this level and reaching such a strong position is a significant achievement that should be celebrated.

The team represented their school with pride, professionalism, and determination , and their journey is only just beginning.

Well done to Ms Densley-Adams and the Debug Divas!!

Eisteddfod 2026!

The beginning of March can only mean one this in Pencoed Comprehensive…it’s Eisteddfod time!

On Friday 6th March, learners from Years 7, 8 and 9 gathered in the Sports Hall, eagerly awaiting a series of superb performances. Displaying their house colours with pride, the day was the final chance to earn points, with learners having entered a range of off-stage competitions; from celebrating Welsh pioneers, to designing the perfect ‘crempog’.

In Mr Jones’ absence, and Mr Phillips “jokes” falling flat, two of our 6th Form stepped up to kick the day off, followed by a performance from the recent school show, and Miss Hopkins’ Welsh raps, which are fast becoming a firm favourite with the crowd! Mrs Cowell did very well to remain neutral throughout her presenting duties, despite being a proud member of Ty Gwenllian!

The rest of the day showcased a whole host of talent, from vocal solos, poetry recitals, dancing and martial arts. Last lesson was reserved for our ‘live’ performers, displaying instrumental skill that had the whole Sports Hall on their feet, and proceedings drew to a close with the traditional ‘Charing of the Bard’.

The effort from from all participants was fantastic, and as always, our Eisteddfod showcases the true community spirit of Pencoed Comprehensive; despite the light-hearted competition between the houses, all learners and staff showed the utmost respect for those brave enough to take to the stage, cheering them on and showing support, regardless of their house.

However, there can only be one winning house…the balance swung throughout the day, and the final results were as follows:

  • Fourth: Branwen (yellow)
  • Third: Llewelyn (red)
  • Second: Gwenllian (blue)
  • First: Owain (green)

Check out the highlights from the day below!