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https://vtcnews.vn/vo-si-kazakhstan-lap-mon-phai-khieu-chien-vo-lam-trung-quoc-ar986869.html
Minister agrees to visit Godre’r Graig school after six years in portacabins
Pupils at the school have been taught in temporary portacabins miles from their community since the original building was closed and demolished in 2019. Despite a funding application for a replacement school being submitted by Neath Port Talbot Council, no decision has yet been made — and Welsh Government officials are reportedly assessing the proposal as if it were for a brand-new school.
“This isn’t a new school — it already exists”
Raising the issue in the Senedd this week, Sioned Williams MS, who represents South Wales West, urged the Cabinet Secretary to meet with school leaders and “understand the exceptional context” of the application.
“What is of concern to me is the impact on the many learners at Godre’r Graig School who have never been educated in a permanent school building in their own community,” she said. “This isn’t a ‘new school’ — the school already exists.”
Ms Neagle confirmed she was “very happy to visit the school,” and acknowledged the wider impact of the situation on Welsh suppliers and families.
Community frustration grows over delays
The funding application is being considered under the Sustainable Communities for Learning Nine-Year Rolling Programme, but concerns have been raised about the criteria being applied. A letter from Welsh Government officials reportedly referenced the impact a “new school” could have on pupil numbers at neighbouring schools — but not the disruption already affecting Godre’r Graig pupils.
David Chadwick MP, Liberal Democrat Member for the area, has also written to the Cabinet Secretary urging urgent action:
“Five years after its closure, pupils are still being taught in temporary offsite portacabins. These facilities are not suitable for long-term education, and parents continue to raise concerns about uncomfortable temperatures and extended daily travel.”
He called for clarity on the timeline for reviewing the application, the criteria being used, and whether any interim support would be offered to improve current learning conditions.
Rejected super school plan still casts a shadow
The original proposal to merge schools in the Swansea Valley into a single “super school” was overwhelmingly rejected by the local community in 2021. Campaigners argued that the plan would strip three communities of their local primary schools, including Godre’r Graig.
With the demolition of the original building now complete, campaigners say the lack of a permanent replacement risks undermining the future of a successful school — and leaving a generation of learners without a stable, community-based education.
Related stories from Swansea Bay News
‘Shameful’ answer from First Minister on replacement for demolished Swansea Valley school
Senedd response sparks anger over lack of progress on permanent school rebuild.
Council to discuss multimillion-pound school building plans
Neath Port Talbot outlines future investment in education infrastructure.
Swansea Valley super school plan rejected
Community campaign succeeds in stopping controversial school merger.
‘Listen to the people’: NPT Council urged to reject plans to close Swansea Valley schools
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#DavidChadwickMP #education #GodreRgraig #GodreRGraigPrimarySchool #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #newSchool #Pontardawe #portacabin #SionedWilliamsMS #SwanseaValley #WelshGovernment
New school plans for Ysgol Heol Goffa move forward after years of uncertainty
A school long described as “not fit for purpose”
Ysgol Heol Goffa, which supports children with additional learning needs, has been at the centre of one of Carmarthenshire’s most high‑profile education battles. Built for fewer than 100 pupils, the school is now stretched to accommodate nearly 150, with parents and staff warning for years that the building is overcrowded and inadequate.
In July, school governor Owen Jenkins told councillors the existing site was simply “not fit for purpose”, adding:
“Our pupils deserve the provision that they are entitled to. We’ll be pressing the local authority for a rigid timescale so we can know when the first spade will go into the ground.”
📅 Timeline: The fight for a new Heol Goffa school
2017
Council first commits to a £10m replacement school.
2023
Plans scrapped due to rising costs. Campaigners brand the decision “an appalling scandal” and launch protests.
Early 2024
Independent review warns the council risks breaching duties under the Additional Learning Needs Act.
July 2025
Cabinet approves a new 150‑pupil school, costed between £28m and £35m. Families welcome the decision but demand a clear timescale.
October 2025
Council officers present the schedule of accommodation to school leaders. Feedback will shape the final design and costings.
Years of delay and community anger
The promise of a new school dates back to 2017, when the council first committed to a £10m replacement. But the scheme was later cancelled as costs rose, sparking anger across Llanelli.
Campaigners branded the decision “an appalling scandal”, while more than 9,000 people signed a petition demanding action. Parents staged protests outside County Hall, and local MP Dame Nia Griffith accused the authority of failing some of the county’s most vulnerable children.
Parents and supporters outside County Hall in Carmarthen with “Save Ysgol Heol Goffa” banners, calling for a new school to be built.Cabinet backs a £35m new build
After months of pressure, Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet voted in July 2025 to approve a new school for up to 150 pupils, at an estimated cost of between £28m and £35m.
Education cabinet member Glynog Davies described the new plan as “a much better outcome for pupils, parents and staff”, arguing that a 150‑pupil school was more achievable than the larger 250‑pupil option previously considered.
Parents Lana and Alex Dakin, whose son Jac attends the school, said they were relieved:
“It won’t undo the years our son has spent in a building that can’t meet his needs, but at least now there’s hope he’ll experience some of his school years in a setting that truly supports him.”
Headteacher Ceri Hopkins also welcomed the decision, saying the new setting would support the school’s “courageous and creative curriculum” by meeting all learning, physical and medical needs.
Latest update: design work shared
On 2 October, council officers met with the school’s Chair and Headteacher to present the schedule of accommodation for the new build. The school will now provide feedback before the design and costings are finalised.
Once agreed, the plans will move into a detailed timeline covering planning approval, statutory consultation under the School Organisation Code, and the Welsh Government’s business case process.
The Director of Education has also pledged to meet with the wider school community after the autumn half‑term break to share more details and answer questions.
“A centre of excellence”
In a joint statement, Owain Lloyd, Director of Education, and Headteacher Ceri Hopkins said:
“We remain committed to working closely to design, build and create a centre of excellence for the very well‑deserving pupils of Ysgol Heol Goffa.”
Families still cautious
Council leader Darren Price has described the project as “a really positive day” for education in Llanelli, but admitted the process will take time: “You don’t build a school overnight.”
For families and campaigners, today’s update is a welcome sign of progress — but after eight years of delays, reversals and political rows, they remain determined to hold the council to its word.
Related stories from Swansea Bay News
Campaigners condemn “appalling scandal” over autism provision in Llanelli
Parents and campaigners hit out after the council scrapped plans for a new Heol Goffa school.
5,000‑name petition on new special needs school U‑turn handed to council
Thousands backed calls for Carmarthenshire Council to reverse its decision on Heol Goffa.
Plans revealed for replacement Heol Goffa special school on former Draka Works site
Early proposals showed how a new school could be built on the former cable works site in Llanelli.
#additionalLearningNeeds #Autism #CarmarthenshireCouncil #education #Llanelli #newSchool #specialSchool #YsgolHeolGoffa
“Shameful” answer from First Minister on replacement for demolished Swansea Valley school
School closed over landslide risk
Godre’r Graig Primary was shut in July 2019 after a geotechnical report identified a medium risk of landslide from a quarry spoil tip above the playground. Pupils were moved into portable classrooms near Cwmtawe Community School in Pontardawe, more than three miles away. The original building has since been demolished.
Neath Port Talbot Council has submitted an application to Welsh Government for funding to build a replacement school. But uncertainty over the bid, and how it is being assessed, has raised concerns among staff and parents about the school’s long‑term future.
Clash in the Senedd
Raising the issue in the Senedd on Tuesday (30 September), South Wales West MS Sioned Williams said correspondence seen by the school suggested the application was being treated as if it were for a brand‑new school, rather than a replacement forced by “the scars of our industrial legacy.”
In response, the First Minister said:
“Well, my understanding is that the Plaid council blocked the new school proposal, and that is something that you may want to reflect on.”
The remark referred to the previous Labour administration’s controversial “super school” plan, which would have merged Godre’r Graig with Alltwen and Llangiwg primaries on a new site at Parc Ynysderw, Pontardawe. That proposal was overturned by the council’s new rainbow coalition in 2022 following strong community opposition.
“Children deserved a better response”
Speaking afterwards, Ms Williams said:
“The children, staff and community of Godre’rgraig deserved a better response to their situation than that given by the First Minister today.
This building was closed through no fault of the school, its staff or its pupils but rather the scars of our industrial legacy – that are continuing to impact our children to this day.
It was shameful to see the First Minister play politics with the future of Godre’r Graig Primary School without even trying to answer my question about the need to recognise the exceptional circumstances that led to the school requiring a new building.”
She confirmed she will be writing to the First Minister to demand a “substantive response more befitting of her office.”
Related articles
- Swansea Valley super school plan rejected
Neath Port Talbot Council scraps controversial proposal to merge three primaries into one new ‘super school’ at Pontardawe.
- Council to discuss multimillion-pound school building plans
Cabinet members consider major investment in new and replacement schools across the borough.
- Decision day set for controversial Swansea Valley super school plans
Key vote scheduled on whether to proceed with merging Alltwen, Godre’r Graig and Llangiwg primaries.
- Senedd Member calls for Pontardawe super school plan to be rejected
Sioned Williams MS warns the proposals would damage community life and Welsh language provision.
- Council to review Swansea Valley super school decision made by previous administration
New coalition leadership re-examines the controversial education project after local backlash.
- Plan for new super primary school in Swansea Valley recommended for council’s cabinet approval
Officers recommend approval for a £22m single-site school at Parc Ynysderw, Pontardawe.
- Three Swansea Valley schools could be replaced with one new one under latest council plans
Proposals outlined to merge Godre’r Graig, Alltwen and Llangiwg primaries into a single new build.
#coalTipSafety #CwmtaweCommunitySchool #ElunedMorganMS #FirstMinister #GodreRgraig #GodreRGraigPrimarySchool #landslide #landslideRisk #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #newSchool #PlaidCymru #Pontardawe #quarryTip #SionedWilliamsMS #superSchool #SwanseaValley #WelshGovernment #WelshLabour
Updated plans unveiled for new Mynydd Cynffig Primary School
The updated planning application is now with the Local Planning Authority. Officials say the revisions reflect comments received during consultation and align with the latest planning and environmental guidance.
The new two‑storey building would replace the existing junior department site, bringing all year groups together on a single campus. Designed to be Net Zero Carbon in operation, the school will feature modern learning environments including an indoor learning plaza, main hall, studio hall, outdoor play areas and all‑weather pitches.
Key changes in the revised plans include:
- Noise reduction: Acoustic fencing will be installed around the school boundary, supported by planting around the all‑weather sports pitch. Environmental assessments confirm projected noise levels remain within acceptable limits.
- Sports pitch: The all‑weather pitch will now be built without floodlighting, following local concerns and environmental considerations.
- Ecology: Extra ecological mitigation and planting measures have been added to support biodiversity, including protections for species such as dormice and slow worms.
Facilities will also include cycle storage, electric vehicle charging points, and secure allotments with 26 individual plots. The school’s sports and hall facilities will be available for use by community groups.
Cllr Martyn Jones, Cabinet Member for Education and Youth Services, said: “It’s pleasing to see that the school modernisation plans for Mynydd Cynffig Primary School reflect our ambition of not only providing the very best learning environment for our pupils, but also meeting the needs of our local community.
“The school will be a modern, sustainable and inspiring facility that will benefit both learners and the wider community for many years to come.”
Related stories from Swansea Bay News
Tender process set to begin for new‑build Mynydd Cynffig Primary School
Council confirms procurement stage for the long‑awaited redevelopment project.
Plans for a new Kenfig Hill primary school and allotments move a step closer
Revised proposals include new allotments and community facilities alongside the school build.
Council to ‘reluctantly’ take legal action against allotment holders
Dispute continues as allotment tenants resist relocation to make way for the new school.
#BridgendCountyBoroughCouncil #CllrMartynJones #education #KenfigHill #MynyddCynffigPrimarySchool #newSchool #UpdatedMynyddCynffigPrimaryPlans
Calls for major rebuild as more than 700 building faults uncovered at Tenby’s Ysgol Greenhill
School faces infrastructure crisis despite academic progress
A report to Pembrokeshire County Council’s Schools & Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee this week warns that extensive building improvements — or even a completely new school — may be required at Ysgol Greenhill, Tenby.
The secondary school, which educates around 900 pupils, has been led by headteacher David Haynes since 2021. Under his leadership, the school was removed from special measures in 2024 following significant improvements in teaching and leadership.
But despite the academic turnaround, councillors are being told that the physical condition of the school is now a major concern.
Over 700 faults identified
An inspection by the Schools Scrutiny Panel in July found more than 700 building defects, ranging from structural issues to maintenance failures.
Emergency works began in May 2025, with a contract worth more than £0.5m awarded for urgent repairs. The council has said every effort is being made to minimise disruption to teaching and exams while the work continues.
Concerns raised by pupils and staff
During the panel visit, both staff and pupils highlighted the poor state of the premises, though acknowledged that construction work was underway at the time.
The report also noted:
- Welsh language provision remains limited, with pupils saying they would like to see it more integrated across lessons.
- Attendance continues to be a challenge post‑Covid, with the school working with its cluster to improve figures.
- Reading standards among incoming Year 7 pupils are a concern, with guided reading sessions and assessments being introduced to help pupils catch up.
Praise for leadership but call for long‑term plan
The panel praised Mr Haynes’ “strong leadership” and the school’s strengthened cluster partnerships, particularly with Narberth CP School on Welsh language development.
However, councillors are being advised to prioritise long‑term funding and strategic planning for the site, including the possibility of a new school build.
The report also recommends:
- Expanding partnerships beyond the current cluster
- Providing resources for bilingual signage and Welsh‑language enrichment
- Earlier reading assessments in primary schools to support transition
Background: urgent works already underway
According to Pembrokeshire County Council, urgent structural works began in May 2025 and are expected to continue into the new academic year. Parents were informed directly by the headteacher, with assurances that safety and learning continuity remain the priority.
Related stories from Swansea Bay News
£420m school plan for Blaenymaes and Portmead sparks row
Swansea Council approves plans for a new school, but governors at Portmead raise strong objections to amalgamation.
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Pupils moved to Gwynfryn School after structural safety concerns force the closure of Carway Community Primary.
Plans unveiled for new pre‑16 Vocational Centre in Port Talbot
Former Victorian school building could be transformed into a bilingual hub offering hands‑on training and career pathways.
More education news
Catch up on the latest school, college and university stories from across South West Wales.
#buildingDefect #education #GreenhillSchool #newSchool #PembrokeshireCouncil #reading #SchoolAttendance #SchoolsLearningOverviewAndScrutinyCommittee #specialMeasures #Tenby #WelshLanguage
Finishing the week by working on a side quest project!
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Decision on new Heol Goffa school expected this month
A long-awaited decision on a new special school for Llanelli could finally be made this month, with Carmarthenshire Council’s cabinet member for education, Cllr Glynog Davies, confirming he intends to bring forward a “definitive proposal” at a cabinet meeting on July 31.
The announcement follows years of uncertainty surrounding the future of Ysgol Heol Goffa, which serves pupils with additional learning needs and has long been described as overcrowded and unfit for purpose. Plans for a replacement school were first agreed in 2017 but were shelved last year due to rising costs — sparking protests, petitions and widespread community backlash.
Two options on the table
Following an independent review of specialist education in the Llanelli area, the council is now considering two revised options:
- A 150-place school, alongside specialist centres for pupils with autistic spectrum conditions attached to mainstream schools
- A 250-place standalone school, which would include provision for autistic pupils — and is the preferred option of Ysgol Heol Goffa’s governors and campaigners
Cost estimates range from £36.2 million to £58.1 million, with the Welsh Government expected to fund the majority of the capital investment.
Cllr Davies told full council on July 23 that “a lot of work” had now been done and that the proposal was “imminent” — though opposition councillors and parents say they’re still waiting for firm answers.
Political tensions and community frustration
Labour opposition leader Cllr Deryk Cundy pressed Cllr Davies for a clear timeline, saying parents deserved peace of mind after eight years of delays. Cllr Davies responded that the matter had to go before cabinet and reiterated his intention to make a formal proposal on July 31.
The exchange has reignited political tensions, with Plaid Cymru councillor Terry Davies accusing Labour of “generating headlines” rather than seeking genuine answers. In a Facebook post, he said:
“The announcement on Ysgol Heol Goffa has already been agreed with the school and its governors… If we’d pursued Labour’s previous proposal, the new school would already be facing serious capacity issues on opening day.”
But parents say the issue is far more urgent than party politics. Becki Gilroy, whose child attends Heol Goffa, responded:
“How dare you try and turn this around to the narrative that ‘Plaid are heroes for not building the original school as it was too small’. That’s a total insult to our intelligence. It was obvious from the start that the original plans didn’t meet current or future demand — but at least they would have provided a safe, accessible building. Right now, we’ve got water coming through the ceiling and doorways too narrow for wheelchairs.
Let’s be clear: the reason the council pulled the plug wasn’t capacity — it was cost. And now, after years of delay, we’re being told to wait even longer while they rework the plans. Meanwhile, children are stuck on waiting lists, denied the education they’re entitled to.
The David Davies review makes it crystal clear — unless a suitable school is built promptly, CCC is breaching its legal duties under the Equality Act. That includes failing to provide reasonable adjustments and accessible facilities for disabled pupils. This isn’t just a moral failure — it’s potentially unlawful discrimination.
And before anyone tries to politicise this, I’m not Plaid or Labour. I’m a parent of a disabled child who’s sick to the back teeth of being fobbed off. Our children deserve better — and the council needs to act before it’s too late.”
Campaigners demand action
The Ysgol Heol Goffa Action Committee, which has led protests and gathered thousands of petition signatures, says time is running out. In a statement earlier this year, the group wrote:
“Time is of the essence here; parents do not want to be waiting another five years plus for the new school. We agree that the school can be delivered in a more cost-effective manner, while also increasing pupil capacity to address the ever-growing need.”
The group has consistently backed the 250-place option, arguing that anything smaller would be outdated before it opens.
What happens next?
Cllr Davies is expected to present his proposal at the July 31 cabinet meeting, where councillors will review feasibility work and costings. If approved, the new school would replace the current Heol Goffa site, which has been described in council reports as “not fit for purpose” and facing significant accessibility and maintenance issues.
Related stories on Heol Goffa and specialist education in Llanelli
Concerns raised over future of Heol Goffa special school amid Reform UK surge and council delays
Published June 2024: Campaigners say political uncertainty and missed deadlines are putting disabled pupils at risk, as calls grow for urgent action on a new school.
Education cabinet member to propose new-build additional learning needs school
Published July 2024: Cllr Glynog Davies confirms plans to bring forward a new proposal for Heol Goffa, following feasibility work and community consultation.
Council says it’s looking at alternative scheme after axing Heol Goffa replacement school
Published March 2024: Carmarthenshire Council outlines new options after scrapping the previously approved school build due to rising costs.
MP says council decision to scrap new Heol Goffa school plans ‘wrong choice’
Published February 2024: Llanelli MP Dame Nia Griffith criticises the council’s decision to halt the new school project, calling it a setback for disabled children and their families.
#additionalLearningNeeds #additionalLearningNeedsProvisionWales #AdditionalLearningNeedsSchool #ALN #CarmarthenshireCouncil #CllrDerykCundy #CllrGlynogDavies #CllrTerryDavies #HeolGoffa #HeolGoffaActionCommittee #Llanelli #newSchool #PlaidCymru #specialSchool #WelshLabour #YsgolHeolGoffa
Plans submitted for new £30m Llangatwg Community School building
Neath Port Talbot Council has submitted plans for a brand-new building to replace Llangatwg Community School in Cadoxton — part of its ongoing Strategic School Improvement Programme (SSIP).
The proposed development would see the existing site transformed into a modern, purpose-built English-medium secondary school for up to 850 pupils, including dedicated provision for those with additional learning needs.
It’s the latest in a series of major education investments across the county borough, following our earlier reporting on five new schools proposed under a £106m funding bid. If approved, construction is expected to begin in early 2026.
Artist’s impression of the new Llangatwg school(Image: Neath Port Talbot Council)Artist’s impression of the new Llangatwg school
(Image: Neath Port Talbot Council)Artist’s impression of the new Llangatwg school
(Image: Neath Port Talbot Council)Artist’s impression of the new Llangatwg school
(Image: Neath Port Talbot Council)Artist’s impression of the new Llangatwg school
(Image: Neath Port Talbot Council)
A council spokesperson said:
“The vision for the new school is to provide a high-quality, flexible learning environment that supports the delivery of the Curriculum for Wales, while also offering enhanced facilities for both pupils and the wider community.”
Plans include state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, IT suites, roof terrace learning areas, and a central learning resource centre. The school would also feature a sports hall, performance space, vocational workshops and conference rooms — many with potential for community use.
Outdoor facilities would include two sports pitches, three multi-use games areas, a forest school, and even a greenhouse and food growing area. Transport and access have been carefully considered, with designated drop-off zones, EV charging points, and accessible parking.
The design meets the Welsh Government’s Net Zero Carbon in Operation standards and targets an embodied carbon footprint of just 600kgCO₂/m², developed in collaboration with ecology, landscaping and drainage specialists.
The new school would replace a building currently rated Category C- for condition, with £6.8 million in backlog maintenance and accessibility costs. Council leaders say the investment will help raise educational standards, improve accessibility, and create a more inclusive, community-focused campus.
Related stories on school investment and education reform
Five new schools could be coming to Neath Port Talbot
Published May 2025: Council outlines £106m bid to deliver new schools across the county borough, including proposals for Llangatwg and other priority sites.
Concerns raised over future of Heol Goffa special school amid Reform UK surge and council delays
Published June 2025: Campaigners call for clarity on plans for a new special school in Llanelli, citing delays and political uncertainty.
Council-backed plans for major investment in two Swansea secondary schools move forward
Published April 2025: Swansea Council progresses plans to upgrade Penyrheol and Bishopston schools as part of its education investment strategy.
Milford Haven schools set for £141m transformation under new education investment plans
Published March 2025: Pembrokeshire Council unveils plans to redevelop Milford Haven’s primary and secondary schools into a single, modern campus.
#additionalLearningNeedsProvisionWales #Cadoxton #communityFocusedSchoolDesign #CurriculumForWalesFacilities #educationCapitalInvestmentWales #embodiedCarbonTargetSchools #greenInfrastructureEducation #LlangatwgCommunitySchool #LlangatwgCommunitySchoolRedevelopment #LlangatwgComprehensiveSchool #modernSchoolBuildingsWales #Neath #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #NeathPortTalbotCouncilEducation #NeathPortTalbotSchoolInvestment #NetZeroCarbonSchools #newSchool #newSchoolProjectsWales #newSecondarySchoolNeath #schoolConstructionNeath2026 #schoolImprovementWalesStrategy #schoolPlanningApplicationNeath #SSIPNeathPortTalbot #StrategicSchoolImprovementProgramme #sustainableSchoolDesignWales #WelshGovernmentLearningProgramme
Reptiles delay opening of new Welsh-medium school in Bridgend until 2027
The opening of a new campus for Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Ogwr in Brackla, Bridgend has been delayed by two years after protected reptiles were discovered on the development site.
The Welsh-medium primary school was due to move to a larger location this September, but Bridgend County Borough Council has now confirmed the new opening date will be September 2027. The delay is due to the presence of reptiles, which has stalled completion of essential ecology work.
While the council has not confirmed which species are involved, the site is likely home to one or more of the UK’s native reptiles, including slow-worms, grass snakes, adders, or common lizards. These species are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and must be safely relocated before construction can proceed.
“The relocation of the reptiles is expected to take place over the summer,” said a council spokesperson. “Further site investigation works will follow once the remaining scrub and brambles are cleared.”
Political reaction and temporary expansion
The delay has drawn criticism from South Wales West Senedd member Altaf Hussain, who called it “devastating news for parents in Bridgend who wish for their children to learn through the medium of Welsh.”
Education Secretary Lynne Neagle described the delay as “regrettable” but confirmed that the Welsh Government has provided £500,000 in funding to allow for temporary expansion at the current site. Two modular classrooms will be installed this September to accommodate additional pupils.
The new school is expected to cost £18.6 million, with capacity for 525 pupils aged 4–11 and a 90-place nursery. Planning and architectural work is ongoing, and the council says it remains committed to delivering the project.
Related education stories from Swansea Bay News
Concerns raised over future of Heol Goffa special school amid Reform UK surge and council delays
Published June 2025: Campaigners call for clarity on Llanelli’s new special school plans as political tensions and planning delays mount.
Council-backed plans for major investment in two Swansea secondary schools move forward
Published May 2025: Swansea Council confirms funding and design progress for upgrades at Cefn Hengoed and Penyrheol comprehensives.
Milford Haven schools set for £141m transformation under new education investment plans
Published April 2025: Pembrokeshire Council unveils ambitious plans to modernise education facilities across Milford Haven.
Bridgend County pupils make a splash as school swimming galas return
Published March 2025: Hundreds of pupils take part in revived swimming gala events across Bridgend, celebrating sport and school spirit.
#adder #adders #Brackla #Bridgend #BridgendCountyBoroughCouncil #ecology #Environment #grassSnake #lizards #newSchool #reptiles #YsgolGymraegBroOgwr
Council-backed plans for major investment in two Swansea secondary schools move forward
Swansea Council’s Cabinet is being asked to approve the next phase of work, which would see outdated classrooms and facilities at Gowerton School replaced, alongside refurbishment and upgrades to other areas of the site. The improvements aim to deliver significantly enhanced spaces for learning, sport, recreation and wider community use.
Cabinet members are also considering funding for the detailed design and pre-construction phase, with contractors expected to work closely with pupils, staff, governors and the wider community to shape the final plans.
Separately, the Council is progressing plans for a brand new Bishop Vaughan Catholic School, to be built on the site of the former Daniel James Community School in Mynyddbach. Existing buildings on the site — including those previously occupied by YGG Tirdeunaw — would be demolished next year, with construction of the new school potentially completed within five years.
Bishop Vaughan school and the former Daniel James school(Images: Google Maps)
The new Bishop Vaughan campus would offer state-of-the-art facilities and vocational learning opportunities for both pupils and the wider community. Pupils and staff will remain at the current site throughout the build, with no disruption to learning.
Cabinet members are also being asked to approve a land swap with the Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia, alongside potential changes to lease arrangements associated with the site.
Robert Smith, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “In Swansea we are seeing record investment in our school buildings with more than £400m earmarked to create state-of-the-art facilities to give pupils the best possible support to reach their full potential.
“Many of our secondary schools have already benefitted from investment and I’m pleased that our plans for Gowerton and Bishop Vaughan are progressing, as is investment at Ysgol Gyfun Bryn Tawe. Thousands more pupils will benefit from these latest projects for many years to come.”
Both projects are part of the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, and will be built to net zero operational carbon targets. Contractors will be expected to create work and apprenticeship opportunities, and source materials and services locally under the council’s Beyond Bricks and Mortar policy.
#BeyondBricksAndMortar #BishopVaughanCatholicSchool #CllrRobertSmith #DanielJamesCommunitySchool #GowertonComprehensiveSchool #Mynyddbach #netZero #newSchool #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #YGGTirdeunaw
Milford Haven schools set for £141m transformation under new education investment plans
The plans include a combined new primary and secondary school building on the existing secondary school site, featuring shared facilities such as kitchen and sports areas, a 40-place Flying Start centre, and a 36-place secondary Learning Resource Centre. The proposal replaces earlier options to refurbish Milford Haven School and Milford Haven CP School, aiming instead for a modern, co-located campus.
A Strategic Outline Case will also be submitted to Welsh Government for the development of a new 3–11 Welsh medium school, responding to growing demand in the area and supporting the Council’s Welsh in Education Strategic Plan (WESP) targets.
Cllr Guy Woodham, Cabinet Member for Education and the Welsh Language, said: “The Milford Haven Schools redevelopment represents the largest investment in the school estate undertaken by the Council. It will address significant concerns regarding the condition of the two current schools and will enable Milford Haven CP School to operate on a single site. The co-location of the English medium primary and secondary schools will bring economies of scale by combining certain facilities and will provide an opportunity to develop an ‘all-through’ school if desired at some point in the future.”
The total estimated cost of the preferred options is £141,598,965, with £46.5 million to be funded through Pembrokeshire County Council’s Capital Programme.
Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services and local member, said: “This is a great day. I think this has been such a long time coming, the redevelopment can’t come quickly enough.”
Cabinet members unanimously backed the proposals, which are expected to deliver long-term educational, linguistic and community benefits for the Milford Haven area.
#CllrGuyWoodham #CllrRhysSinnett #education #MilfordHaven #MilfordHavenSchool #newSchool #PembrokeshireCouncil
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Tender process set to begin for new-build Mynydd Cynffig Primary School
The new-build school would be built on land currently occupied by Mynydd Cynffig Primary School’s junior department and would operate on a single site basis, bringing together all year groups in the same location. The school has also been designed with sustainable features and will be Net Zero Carbon in operation.
In addition to the classrooms, the two-storey school features an indoor learning plaza, a main hall, ancillary studio hall, outdoor play areas, and all-weather pitches, which may also be utilised by community groups and organisations. Cycle facilities are included for pupils and staff, along with parking facilities for the school, which include electric vehicle charging points.
A significant landscaping scheme is also incorporated into the design and new secure allotments will be located to the north of the site, providing 26 individual plots.
Cabinet have also approved a revised opening date for school of September 2027, which will coincide with the start of the 2027/28 academic year. The school’s governing body were consulted, and no objections were received.
Subject to obtaining the necessary planning consent, the local authority will then be in a position to tender the scheme. The outcome of the tender process will be reported to Cabinet once complete.
Cllr Martyn Jones, Cabinet Member for Education and Youth Services, said: “Providing our pupils and local communities with state of the art, modern and sustainable school facilities is one of our top priorities as a Cabinet and the start of the tender process represents a key milestone in this important project.
“This is a community focused project and the level of engagement from the local community and pupils has played an important part in the development of the project so far. It’s pleasing that the school will be Net Zero Carbon in operation, and this will potentially lead to many environmental and financial advantages.
“The planning application is set to be considered at Development Control Committee in the near future and I look forward to providing further updates in due course.”
#BridgendCountyBoroughCouncil #KenfigHill #MynyddCynffigPrimarySchool #newSchool
Work on new Bishop Vaughan school could start early next year
The new 1,400-pupil school, including a 200-strong sixth form would be built on the former Daniel James School site in Penderry.
The proposals are at an advanced stage and, subject to planning permission, work demolishing the old Daniel James Community School could begin early in 2026.
Robert Smith, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “This is very good news for pupils of Bishop Vaughan Catholic School who will get a 21st Century state-of-the-art replacement school.
“The outline proposals for the future of Bishop Vaughan were agreed last year, as part of our ambitious £400m schools’ investment programme in new and improved school buildings across Swansea.
“The new programme brings to almost £1bn the amount of spending or money Swansea Council has committed to improving our schools so future generations of our children can benefit.”
He said: “The current Bishop Vaughan Catholic School is in need of significant investment and, following discussion with the school and diocese, the preferred option is a new build on the site of the former Daniel James School in Mynyddbach.
“We are now following through on that with the first phase being to issue a contract for the demolition of the buildings on the current Daniel James Community School site.
“The new build project remains in the very early stages of feasibility design, working closely with stakeholders. The design will provide a fully accessible school environment and aims to provide a sustainable net-zero operational carbon facility with an emphasis on biodiversity and promotion of well-being.
“The project further seeks to provide an environment that enhances existing, and promotes further community and wider use.
The latest proposals for the new school are still subject to further discussions with Welsh Government, the Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia – which provides a network of Catholic schools – and formal approval from Swansea Council’s Cabinet.
Designs for the new school would also be subject to planning permission.
The tender period for the demolition phase is due to commence shortly and work is anticipated to commence the early part of 2026.
The former Daniel James school has been a magnet for antisocial behaviour in recent years, with firefighters called to suspected arson at the building just last month.
The council’s wider £400m programme for new and upgraded schools includes further investment in improvements at both primary and secondary schools.
Andrew Scott Ltd has recently been appointed to carry out the pre-construction phase design for Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Bryn Tawe to improve facilities and increase capacity at the Welsh-medium secondary school.
The pre-construction phase design for Gowerton School is currently out to tender and further secondary schools have already been identified for investment, there is the potential for new projects at Olchfa and Bishop Gore in the future, depending on funding and individual business case approval.
The programme also includes new school builds on Local Development Plan (LDP) strategic sites in Garden Village, Penllergaer and Cefngyfelach.
Investment will be prioritised for those schools that currently have the greatest condition and suitability needs and these could include Clydach, Dunvant, Blaenymaes, Portmead, Brynhyfryd and St Joseph’s Cathedral Catholic primary schools, as well as YGG Bryn y Mor and Christchurch Church in Wales Primary School.
The contract for the pre-construction phase design for the new build special school at Mynydd Garnllwyd Road which will replace Ysgol Crug Glas and Ysgol Pen-y-Bryn with bigger and better facilities, and that will be named Ysgol Calon Lȃn, is due to be let very shortly.
All proposals would be dependent on the level of funding available from Welsh Government and each one would be subject to individual business cases as well as further Cabinet reports and, if necessary, consultation.
Cllr Smith, said: “We want our young people to learn in modern and welcoming environments by continuing to upgrade our school buildings in the largest ever school investment programme Swansea has seen.
“Over the last decade or so we’ve built seven new schools, carried out major upgrades at seven others with a further three major projects currently in progress.”
“Our proposals have prioritised the current condition of facilities, suitability and sustainability issues as well as our commitment to grow the number of pupils in Swansea who learn through the medium of Welsh.”
#BishopVaughanCatholicSchool #DanielJamesCommunitySchool #education #newSchool #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil
Pupils choose name for city’s new special school
This week Swansea Council’s cabinet has approved funding to appoint a contractor to carry out detailed design, planning and site preparation work.
The new state-of-the-art school at Mynydd Garnllwyd Road will replace Ysgol Crug Glas and Ysgol Pen-y-Bryn with bigger and better facilities.
In another major milestone from September these schools will amalgamate under one governing body and headteacher even though both existing sites will remain open with no disruption to pupils until the newly built school is ready.
Both existing school communities have been involved in selecting a name for the new school and it will be called Ysgol Calon Lȃn.
Calon Lȃn is one of Wales’ most recognisable hymns and was written by Daniel James in the 1890s and set to the music of John Hughes, both of whom lived in Swansea.
Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Robert Smith, said: “A lot of hard work has been done to get us to this stage and I’m extremely grateful to the governing bodies and wider communities at both schools for their support.
“Governors, staff and pupils will now have a big say in the design and look of their new school to help ensure a smooth transition for all.
“This is the largest ever investment in special school facilities in Swansea and when ready the new school build will not only improve education for current pupils, but it will also have an additional 100 places to accommodate a rising demand for special school places and reduce the need for some pupils to be placed into independent and out-of-county schools.”
Gethin Sutton has been appointed as the new headteacher of Ysgol Calon Lȃn.
He said: “Pupils, staff, governors and parent and carers from both existing school communities are looking forward to coming together in September to establish our new school, Ysgol Calon Lân, school of pure heart.
“We are very excited to be building a vibrant unified special school that is comprised of the very best of what our existing schools have to offer, and are thrilled at the journey we will be undertaking to build a wonderful new, 21st Century school building, that offers our city’s most complex and vulnerable learners, the very best resources, environment and opportunities to flourish, learn and thrive.”
Chair of Governors, Alan Pitt, said: “The school communities are very excited by this major project which will greatly improve the ALN provision for vulnerable learners in Swansea.
“There is a real passion within the governing body to ensure that we contribute fully to achieving the best possible outcome.
“Lessons are being learned from other recent special school builds and the governors are committed to keeping the school communities, including pupils, staff, parents and carers, fully appraised of progress as we move forward.”
Meanwhile in nearby Llanelli, Cllr Glynog Davies, Carmarthenshire’s cabinet member for education has said he will propose a new-build additional learning needs school for the town after the previous school-build plan to replace Heol Goffa school was pulled as being unaffordable – a decision that triggered a huge public backlash and a 5,000 name petition handed into the council calling on them to reverse that decision.
#additionalLearningNeeds #CalonLȃn #newSchool #specialSchool #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #YsgolCalonLȃn #YsgolCrugGlas #YsgolPenYBryn
Education cabinet member to propose new-build additional learning needs school
The council had planned a new £17m building to provide a 132 place bilingual special school provision for children and young people aged between 3 and 20 to replace the current Heol Goffa special school, which the council had previously described as oversubscribed and “outdated”.
It then scrapped the plans describing them as “not financially viable” – a decision that triggered a huge public backlash and a 5,000 name petition handed into the council calling on them to reverse that decision.
Now, Cllr Glynog Davies, Carmarthenshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language has said he is to propose that the council’s cabinet consider one of two options for new additional learning needs provision in Llanelli – both of which would result in a larger school than the 120 pupil school that was rejected on cost grounds.
Cllr Davies said: “The original plan that many had pressed for would have resulted in a smaller school, which would have been full on day one.
“Following the independent report we commissioned by David Davies, a former ALN head, I’ll be recommending either a 150-capacity Heol Goffa school on one site, with primary and secondary specialist centres for a total of 115 pupils with Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) attached to mainstream schools, or a new ALN school for 250 pupils, to include provision for pupils with ASC.
“Despite huge financial pressures, we are determined to ensure the very best provision for ALN pupils in the Llanelli area, future-proofed for decades to come. I’m asking for more definite costings and, as always, we will engage with the Welsh Government to ensure funding for the scheme.”
Local Labour councillor, and founder member of an action group campaigning for a new school, Sean Greaney has criticised the way the Plaid-run administration has managed the issue.
Cllr Greaney said: “Plaid has given no guarantees. They have not said they have committed funding for the school. They have not set any timetable or deadline for the school to be built.
“The Welsh Government has committed to fund 75% of the cost of the new school, But after Plaid broke their seven-year promise to build the school, how do we know that their announcement is not just hollow words timed to coincide with the Lliedi by-election?
“We have to have a 100%, nailed on, guarantee that this new school will happen as soon as possible.
“Not only that, but the school, the action group, and most importantly, the parents want a school for 250 pupils, to ensure pupils with autistic spectrum conditions are not left out.
“They need an education specifically tailored to their needs and would benefit immensely from being part of a “super” Ysgol Heol Goffa where the existing expertise of the staff and governors would benefit them immensely, rather than being attached as an add-on to mainstream schools, which is the 150-pupil option.”
#additionalLearningNeeds #ALN #CarmarthenshireCouncil #education #HeolGoffa #Llanelli #newSchool #PlaidCymru #WelshLabour
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