Agenda item

To consider the Objection Report, the summary of the statutory objections received during the objection period, and the responses given to those objections, and having done that, finally confirm the proposal given through statutory notice to close Ysgol Baladeulyn on 31 December 2026 and provide space for learners at Ysgol Talysarn from 1 January 2027 onwards, in accordance with Section 53 of the Schools Standards and Organisation Act (Wales) 2013 and the requirements of the Welsh Government's School Organisation Code (011/2018).

The report was submitted by Cllr Dewi Jones.

DECISION

To consider the Objection Report, the summary of the statutory objections received during the objection period, and the responses given to those objections, and having done that, finally confirm the proposal given through statutory notice to close Ysgol Baladeulyn on 31 December 2026 and provide space for learners at Ysgol Talysarn from 1 January 2027 onwards, in accordance with Section 53 of the Schools Standards and Organisation Act (Wales) 2013 and the requirements of the Welsh Government's School Organisation Code (011/2018).

DISCUSSION

Attention was drawn to the fact that Ysgol Baladeulyn had served the area for many years, and therefore this discussion was a difficult one. It was highlighted that this proposal was not the result of any failure or a reflection of the quality of education offered to the pupils.

Reference was made to the change in demography in the County, the reduction in the number of primary age children now in our communities, and the impact of this on the school estate. The social and economic factors that had contributed to this change in demography were also mentioned, and therefore the need to respond to the reality of the situation and recognise the challenges faced by a school serving so few children.

There was sympathy for the school community, and the school staff were thanked.

The Local Member for the Llanllyfni Ward was welcomed to the meeting.

It was emphasised that the school was an integral part of the community and that the closure of the school would have a far-reaching impact. It was highlighted that the petition to keep the school had been signed by 500 people, and it was reiterated that the number of pupils at the school did not reflect the value of the school to the rural community. There was concern that this would lead to fewer young families moving to the area, and this could have an impact on the Welsh language in the community. It was suggested that federating with Ysgol Talysarn to create an ALN department would be the best option and emphasised the need to consider the long-term impact of the proposal on the community.

Tributes were paid to the children, staff and the school community, and they were thanked for the dignified discussions that took place throughout the process. It was confirmed that the previous report had shown the possible options, and that consideration had been given to federating Ysgol Baladeulyn with another school however, the model would not be suitable in this instance neither would it address the main challenges here in terms of the number of children. It was highlighted that the priority was to try to ensure the best education for the children, which meant that difficult decisions needed to be made at times in order to be able to move the sector forward.

The impact assessment carried out was detailed recognising a likely impact on the Welsh language and the community. Mitigation measures such as encouraging the community of Talysarn to expand its activity to include the community of Nantlle in any activities were identified. The robustness of the Welsh language at Ysgol Talysarn would also be ensured and the school would be able to offer the same educational and social experiences through the medium of Welsh.

Observations arising from the discussion:

·       A question was asked about the capacity of Ysgol Talysarn in the event of the closure of Ysgol Baladeulyn. In response, it was highlighted that an assessment had been completed as part of the process and that the Department was confident that there was adequate capacity at Ysgol Talysarn for those children living in the existing catchment area of Ysgol Baladeulyn. It was added that the usual admissions procedure would be followed in respect of any applications from outside the catchment area.

·       A question was asked about the support provided to the pupils of Ysgol Baladeulyn. Assurances were given that the department planned for the needs of each child ensuring that suitable provision was available for them. It was reiterated that the voice of the child and the voice of the parents would be included in these discussions and that steps would be taken to ensure a smooth transition for the children.

·       The community of Nantlle was thanked noting that everyone had handled the process with respect. It was explained that the County's school estate was now different due to the reduced number of children in Gwynedd. The need to reimagine how education was offered in the County was suggested.