First phase of £78m schools expansion scheme agreed

The first phase of a £78m scheme to expand two schools has been agreed by Caerphilly County Borough Council’s cabinet.

The investment comes through the 21st Century Schools and Colleges Band B programme.

Consultation on the plans, which could see the expansion of Trinity Fields School in Ystrad Mynach, as well as the relocation of Ysgol Gymraeg Cwm Gwyddon in Cwmcarn, will be carried out in the autumn.

Proposals for Trinity Fields, which is the only school specifically for pupils with special educational needs in the borough, include building a new extension with “high quality, modern educational facilities” to accommodate an extra 80 pupils.

The plans also include proposals to build a new school building for Ysgol Gymraeg Cwm Gwyddon on the site of the former Cwmcarn High School, in order to meet demand for Welsh medium education in the eastern part of the borough.

The new school building could accomodate 420 pupils, as well as nursery, childcare and community use.

Councillor Barbara Jones, the council’s cabinet member for education and achievement, said: “The approval to begin consultation is welcome news, as this investment offers opportunities not only to increase capacity for learners, but also to help improve educational attainment by enhancing the learning environment.”

At the end of the consultation period, a report will be compiled and sent back to cabinet members, along with any responses received, for full consideration.