Newport’s Ysgol Bryn Derw, a special needs school, is on the brink of an exciting development as plans for a new Key Stage 2 base are set to be approved. The school, originally designed for 96 students, currently accommodates 112 pupils, highlighting its popularity and need for growth.
The proposed expansion is expected to create an additional 40 places at the school. This increase in capacity aims to cater to more children within the city, eliminating the necessity for costly placements outside the county. Newport City Council views this expansion as a strategic solution to meet the rising demand for specialized education placements, particularly for students with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The Key Stage 2 base is scheduled to open in September at the former Caerleon Lodge Hill infant building. Currently occupied by Welsh-medium school Ysgol Gymraeg Nant Gwenlli, this location will become available from April as Nant Gwenlli pupils transition to their new facility in Pill.
During a recent consultation period, feedback overwhelmingly supported Ysgol Bryn Derw’s expansion plan. Of the 53 participants involved, 50 endorsed the proposal citing the crucial need for more specialist educational opportunities in Newport.
While some respondents suggested alternate considerations such as expanding Maes Ebbw School or consolidating Ysgol Bryn Derw onto one site, the council explained its rationale behind selecting the current expansion plan. Factors such as capital investment requirements, unsuitability of existing sites for enlargement, and scarcity of land parcels influenced these decisions.
Addressing concerns about grant funding allocation between Welsh and English-medium schools, Newport City Council emphasized that relocating Nant Gwenlli to a larger site in Pill better aligns with demand and resource availability. The decision-making process aimed at optimizing educational resources while meeting growing student needs effectively.
As discussions progress towards final approval stages, this imminent expansion signals promising developments in enhancing educational provisions within Newport. By accommodating more students and addressing specific learning requirements through targeted expansions like these, local authorities aim to foster inclusive and accessible education pathways for all learners in the community.
Leave feedback about this