Former soldier Gavin Lewis has transformed his vision of an outdoor education-based school into reality with the opening of Ysgol Antur Cwm in the Swansea Valley. Despite having no background in education, Lewis felt compelled to create a learning environment that would cater to young individuals who would benefit from a hands-on approach. The school, designed for 11 to 16-year-olds with additional learning needs, aims to support those facing social, emotional, and mental health challenges, including those who have been excluded from mainstream education.
Ysgol Antur Cwm was meticulously planned and prepared by Lewis, who secured a building in Ystradgynlais, recruited teachers, established a curriculum, and gained accreditation from the Welsh education inspection body Estyn. The school actively sought students to enrol, and now, two pupils have become the first to join the institution. While the school’s current capacity is 14 students, more enrolments are needed to ensure long-term sustainability.
The school day at Ysgol Antur Cwm runs from 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday, offering a blend of practical learning activities such as cycle maintenance, carpentry, map-reading, hiking, and rock climbing alongside traditional subjects like English and maths. The aim is to equip students with skills that can prepare them for further education or the workforce upon completion of their studies.
One of the pupils, 15-year-old Ieuan Thomas, started in November and has already shown a positive response to the school’s approach. His mother, Gemma Thomas, noted significant improvements in her son’s attitude, academic performance, and overall well-being since joining Ysgol Antur Cwm. The school’s focus on outdoor education has proven to be a successful model, with the students demonstrating a keen interest and commitment to their learning journey.
Headteacher Rhys Pinner, an outdoor education instructor, highlighted the importance of using the outdoors as a gateway to education and tailoring the curriculum to suit the students’ interests and strengths. The engaging and practical approach to learning has resulted in a high attendance rate, with plans to accommodate more pupils in the near future. Ysgol Antur Cwm provides students with necessary resources, including kit for outdoor activities and meals, ensuring a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Lewis, who self-funded the establishment of Ysgol Antur Cwm, plans to transition to a full-time role at the school once his current commitment at Swansea University concludes. Despite the challenges of running an independent school, Lewis remains optimistic about the school’s future and is actively seeking ways to expand and enhance the educational opportunities available to students. With a focus on individualised learning and holistic development, Ysgol Antur Cwm is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people in the Swansea Valley and beyond.