Plans to merge two primary schools in Swansea are in motion as the city council aims to construct a new school for 518 pupils, replacing Blaenymaes and Portmead primaries by 2031. The proposal involves amalgamating the two existing schools in September 2027 to facilitate a smoother transition before the new school is built. The cabinet has agreed to seek feedback on the amalgamation plan, with both schools expected to remain operational until the new facility is ready. This move is seen as a significant first step in aligning systems, curriculum, and staff development processes for the benefit of the students, according to Cllr Robert Smith, cabinet member for education and learning.
Cllr Smith emphasised that the amalgamation process is not solely about constructing a new building but also focusing on the staff and, most importantly, the children. The council’s objective is to provide the best possible facilities for pupils, ensuring they have access to state-of-the-art amenities. The new school is set to be located near Blaenymaes primary on Broughton Avenue and will cater to various age groups with part-time nursery and Flying Start provisions, alongside a specialised teaching facility. The decision on whether to proceed with the merger will be based on the responses received during the consultation period.
Blaenymaes primary currently accommodates around 215 pupils, while Portmead primary, located on Cheriton Crescent, has a slightly smaller enrolment, with approximately 10 fewer students. The assurance has been given that both existing school sites will operate until the completion of the new school to minimise disruptions for parents and pupils. Cllr Smith reiterated the council’s commitment to involving stakeholders, including staff, students, families, and governors, in the detailed design phase to ensure the successful realisation of the project.
Council leader Rob Stewart stressed the importance of providing an optimal learning environment for students, acknowledging the existing conditions of the current schools as substandard. The amalgamation of Blaenymaes and Portmead primaries is viewed as a proactive measure to enhance the educational experience for the pupils. The envisioned single headteacher and governing body for the new school signify a unified approach towards delivering quality education in the community, further underscoring the council’s dedication to prioritising the welfare of the children.
As the consultation progresses, community feedback will play a pivotal role in determining the next course of action concerning the amalgamation of the two primary schools. The council aims to proceed thoughtfully and diligently through each phase of the project, ensuring that the new state-of-the-art school reflects the needs and aspirations of the local community. By involving all relevant stakeholders in the decision-making process, the council seeks to lay a solid foundation for a successful educational establishment that will benefit generations of students to come.
Overall, the efforts to amalgamate Blaenymaes and Portmead primaries in Swansea depict a strategic move by the council to enhance the educational landscape and create a conducive learning environment for the city’s young learners. With a focus on collaboration, consultation, and meticulous planning, the forthcoming new school is envisioned to provide a modern, inclusive, and enriching educational experience for the community.