Issue - meetings

The content of the report on the outcome of the statutory consultation (Consultation Report) on the proposal to close Ysgol Nebo on 31 December 2026 and provide a place for learners at Ysgol Llanllyfni from 1 January 2027 was considered, and the publication of a statutory notice on the proposal was approved, in accordance with the requirements of Section 48 of the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013.

The report was submitted by Cllr Dewi Jones.

DECISION

The content of the report on the outcome of the statutory consultation (Consultation Report) on the proposal to close Ysgol Nebo on 31 December 2026 and provide a place for learners at Ysgol Llanllyfni from 1 January 2027 was considered, and the publication of a statutory notice on the proposal was approved, in accordance with the requirements of Section 48 of the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013.

DISCUSSION

The report was presented stating that it was the result of a very long, thorough and emotional process. Those who participated in the consultation were thanked.

Reference was made to the importance of rural schools to the communities of Gwynedd, but it was noted that there was also a responsibility to consider the reality of the situation honestly. Attention was then drawn to the significant reduction in the number of children in Gwynedd, highlighting that this reduction was also true across the country. The impact this would have on the sustainability of schools within the County was reiterated. It was explained that there were several reasons for the decline in births, citing matters related to second homes, a lack of good jobs in rural areas and the ongoing cost of living crisis.

When referring to Ysgol Nebo in particular, the educational, financial and operational challenges arising from the low numbers of pupils were acknowledged. It was stressed that this was not a reflection of the quality of work of the staff or the commitment of the community. The contentious and difficult nature of a decision of this nature was highlighted, but the need to ensure the best possible educational opportunities for the children of Gwynedd and to safeguard the future of education in the county was stated.

Should the Cabinet agree to move forward with the process, there would be a formal objection period of 28 days before the matter was brought back to the Cabinet. It was assured that steps would be taken to undertake the transition carefully and supportively for the children, and the wider School community.

The Local Member for the Clynnog Ward was welcomed to the meeting. The community, staff and the Governing Body were thanked for the constructive and respectful way they had dealt with this difficult situation. The low numbers in the School and the high costs facing the Council were acknowledged, but there was concern that the discussion about the School's future had been narrow and focused solely on numbers. It was believed that the proposal put forward by the Governing Body, namely the development of Nebo as a more nurturing provision for children with social, emotional and well-being needs, had deserved more consideration. In light of the increasing pressure on children and adult services, it was proposed by the Local Member that schools such as Nebo should be considered as part of early intervention and prevention. In addition, there was concern about the impact of closing the School on the Welsh language in  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6