A Syrian family living in Narberth are delighted with the recent educational successes of two of their children.

The Bataks arrived in the UK as refugees from war torn Syria and were settled in Narberth by the award winning Croeso Arberth.

Other families were also accepted across Pembrokeshire as part of a UK government scheme.

Adnan, the youngest member of Batak family, drew praise from his headteacher, Mr. McGovern of Ysgol Greenhill School in Tenby when he recently spoke of exam results.

“When Adnan arrived in September 2017, he had no English Language skills, oral or written. From this starting point, he has just completed six GCSE subjects and entry-level Welsh Language. But it is his kindness and humour that is most noticeable and enduring,” he said.

Adnan’s older sister, Falak, has also enjoyed recent success at Pembrokeshire College.

She has achieved a Merit Grade at Level III, studying Fashion and Textiles, having completed her first year of the course.

Narberth County Councillor, Clr. Vic Dennis praised the family on their recent successes.

“I have had the pleasure of knowing the Bataks for three years now and in that time they have been warmly welcomed into our community. Falak and Adnan achievements are really good news in what has been a difficult year for everybody,” he remarked.

“As a Governor of Greenhill, I am proud of how the school has supported Adnan through this challenging period in his young life.”

This academic year Adnan plans to join his sister at Pembrokeshire College and further study IT.

They both also contribute to the family business Batak Traditional Syrian Food which is busy supplying local markets.

Clr. Dennis continued: “It is wonderful to see what can be achieved when you take a positive attitude to helping stricken refugees. I wish them good luck and further success with their future plans.”