Welsh Medium Schools in Ceredigion Saved from Closure After ‘Formal Challenge’
Four Welsh medium schools in Ceredigion, facing closure, have been given a reprieve following a last-minute formal challenge to the local education authority’s decision. The previously proposed closure of these small Welsh language primary schools in August 2025 may no longer be achievable, as outlined in a report set to be presented to the Ceredigion Council cabinet in the coming week.
The four schools under threat are Ysgol Craig yr Wylfa, Ysgol Llangwyryfon, Ysgol Syr John Rhys, and Ysgol Llanfihangel y Creuddyn. The initial plan to close these schools had prompted protests and a campaign by the Welsh language group Cymdeithas Ir Iaith. Now, a recommendation going to the cabinet suggests reversing the decision to hold a statutory consultation on the closures.
The proposed consultation is to be treated as an informal period to gather more information, rather than a step towards the closure of the schools in August 2025. The report notes that a formal challenge received in November has led to the need for a reconsideration of the decision made in September 2024.
Ffred Ffransis from Cymdeithas yr Iaith’s education group expressed gratitude to the governors and parents of the schools for their advocacy for the children and communities. The group had previously raised concerns with Education Minister Lynne Neagle, alleging that the council had not adhered to the Welsh Government’s School Organization Code.
The Welsh Government’s code stipulates a presumption in favor of maintaining schools on the protection list, with closure only considered after exploring all alternatives. The council’s failure to follow these directives was highlighted by Cymdeithas yr Iaith, emphasizing the importance of a thorough and conscientious decision-making process.
As the council reassesses the situation, the communities affected by the potential closures are hopeful that their voices will be heard. The proposal to engage with the schools and communities before making decisions has been welcomed as a positive step towards a more inclusive and transparent process.
The challenge to the closure plans has bought valuable time for these rural Welsh medium schools, allowing for a more robust evaluation of the options available. With the uncertainty surrounding the future of these schools, the focus now shifts to community engagement and collaborative decision-making to ensure the best outcomes for the students and their families.
This development showcases the power of community advocacy and the importance of upholding the principles of the Welsh language and education system. The ongoing dialogue between stakeholders is crucial in safeguarding the future of these vital educational institutions and preserving the Welsh language heritage within the region.
As the Ceredigion Council cabinet convenes to reconsider the fate of the schools, the wider community remains hopeful for a positive outcome that prioritizes the well-being and educational needs of the students. The decision made in the coming weeks will not only impact these individual schools but also resonate across Wales, underscoring the significance of supporting Welsh medium education in rural communities.