Carmarthenshire Council is stepping up its game to tackle the growing demand for special needs education in the Llanelli area. Changes are afoot at Ysgol Heol Goffa and beyond that will make a significant difference! The council has decided to more than double the capacity of the Canolfan Y Mor centre in Burry Port to 65 places by 2029. Starting this September, there’ll be ten new spots for pupils with Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC).
While demand for ASC support is skyrocketing, there’s good news on the horizon. More places for primary-age children are set to be added at local schools, including Burry Port Community Primary and Ysgol Penygaer. These changes are part of a larger plan to invest in educational support for those with additional learning needs, prompted by an independent review noting the urgent need for expanded provision.
However, not everyone is satisfied. The decision to proceed with a new Ysgol Heol Goffa aimed at different complex needs has left some campaigners feeling uneasy about current ASC provision. Local Labour politicians are calling for clear-cut plans and expressing frustrations, saying families have been left in limbo. Llanelli MP Nia Griffiths emphasized the importance of expanding ASC support, while Cllr Shaun Greaney described the current situation as “a scandal”.
On the flip side, Plaid politicians argue that Labour’s criticisms are more about political point-scoring than genuine concern. They assure that improvements in ASC services are underway, a sentiment echoed by education campaigners who are campaigning for more specialised centres like Ysgol Heol Goffa to give children the best start in life.
So what’s next? Keep an eye out as the council continues its efforts to address these pressing needs and ensure every child in Llanelli has access to the education and support they need. Join the conversation and let’s work together for a brighter future for our children!