Two Swansea Primary Schools Overwhelmed with Applications
In the particularly competitive primary school admission landscape in Swansea, two schools have found themselves in the unique position of having more applications than available places. According to figures released by Swansea Council, out of the 1,887 on-time applications for reception places at Swansea schools, only two children were unable to secure their first choice school for the September 2025 intake.
One of the schools that experienced this high demand is Ysgol Llwynderw, a Welsh medium primary school located just four miles from the city centre. The school received 49 first choice applications for the 37 places available, demonstrating a significant oversubscription. Nevertheless, Ysgol Llwynderw managed to accommodate all 49 first-choice applicants by expanding its capacity, showcasing a proactive response to the surge in interest.
Ysgol Llwynderw, which initially opened in Sketty in 2002 before relocating to West Cross in September 2008, has a track record of excellence in terms of wellbeing and attitudes to learning. During its last inspection in 2018, the school received the highest possible rating for wellbeing and attitudes to learning, while also scoring well in teaching and learning, care, support and guidance, leadership, management, and standards.
Another school grappling with oversubscription is the English medium Llangyfelach Primary in Llangyfelach, which had to turn away two first choice applicants this year. The school, which received 32 first choice preferences for the 30 available spaces, had to adhere to its capacity constraints. Despite being unable to accommodate all first-choice applicants, Llangyfelach Primary has a strong reputation for facilitating good progress among its pupils, including those with additional learning needs.
According to a Swansea Council spokesperson, families whose children were unable to secure a place at their first preference school were offered spots at either their second preference school or their designated catchment school. The spokesperson reassured families that regardless of the school their child attends, they can expect to receive a high-quality education in a safe and supportive environment. Parents who have yet to apply for a reception place for their child starting in September 2025 are encouraged to do so promptly.
With only a limited number of places available at these in-demand schools, it underscores the importance of early application to secure a spot in the preferred educational institution. The competitive nature of primary school admissions in Swansea highlights the need for families to consider multiple options and have contingency plans in place to ensure a smooth transition into the education system.
As Swansea continues to grow and evolve, the demand for quality education remains a priority for families in the area. The success of schools like Ysgol Llwynderw and Llangyfelach Primary underscores the dedication of educators and the community to provide a nurturing and enriching learning environment for the next generation of students.