New School for Vulnerable Learners Gets Green Light

A new school for vulnerable learners near Newtown has received official backing after the Welsh Government approved a full business case for replacing Brynllywarch Hall School.

The school, located near Kerry, provides specialised education for pupils aged 8-19 with complex emotional, behavioural and social difficulties. The current building has been deemed no longer suitable for meeting the teaching and support requirements of its students.

Under the approved plans, the Welsh Government will fund 75% of the project through its Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, with Powys County Council providing the remaining 25%.

Cllr Pete Roberts, Cabinet Member for Learning Powys, expressed his delight at the decision, stating: "The Welsh Government's approval represents another huge investment in our school infrastructure and will enable construction of the new school building to start."

The new purpose-built community-focused school will feature:
* Specialist support facilities for pupils with challenging behavior and emotional difficulties
* Appropriate learning spaces for the new national curriculum
* Specialist equipment including IT facilities to maximize learning potential
* Fully equipped class bases with breakout spaces and hygiene facilities
* Individual outdoor learning areas

The facilities will also be available for community groups outside of school hours.

This development forms part of the council's broader Strategy for Transforming Education in Powys, aiming to create modern and innovative learning environments for all students.

Construction on the new school building is expected to begin shortly, though specific timelines have not yet been announced.