Rural School Faces Closure Amidst Declining Enrollment
A primary school in Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd, with only two remaining pupils, is set to close its doors at the end of the summer term. Ysgol Y Garreg currently has no students in nursery, reception, or years one through five. The two Year six pupils are expected to transition to secondary school in September.
Unanimous Decision Driven by Falling Numbers
Cyngor Gwynedd’s cabinet voted unanimously to close the school on August 31st, citing the “seriousness of the situation.” Officials stated that a significant decline in pupil numbers across the local authority made the decision unavoidable, despite the school’s long-standing presence in the community.
Dewi Jones, cabinet member for education, described the proposal as one of the most challenging decisions he has encountered. “Nobody goes into education in order to close schools,” Jones commented. “Our ambition is to see schools thriving, children succeeding and communities staying strong.” He acknowledged the school’s century-long service to the area, expressing gratitude to staff, governors, parents, and the community.
However, Jones emphasized the council’s responsibility to address the current realities. “The demographic challenges facing some of our rural communities are real,” he stated. “However painful it is to acknowledge that, we cannot ignore the facts before us, and in the specific position of Ysgol Y Garreg, it is impossible to ignore the seriousness of the situation.”
Jones further explained that educational decisions must prioritize children’s welfare, ensuring access to sustainable education and suitable learning environments. “This is not a decision the cabinet wants to make, but it’s a decision that certain circumstances have led us to,” he added.
Broader Demographic Trends Impacting Education
The councillor highlighted a substantial drop in the number of children in Gwynedd over the past decade, from approximately 9,000 in primary schools in 2016 to just over 7,800. “That’s a substantial reduction, and in light of that, we can’t just continue as we are. It forces us to have to change things,” Jones explained.
Councillor June Jones echoed the sentiment, describing the situation as sad and acknowledging the school’s role as “a key part of the community for over a century.” Councillor Dilwyn Morgan raised concerns regarding the Welsh language but suggested that larger schools might offer more opportunities for children to engage with the language in a “more natural part of their lives.”
From September 1st, Ysgol Cefn Coch will serve as the designated alternative school for the Ysgol Y Garreg catchment area.
