A small village primary school is on the brink of closure as its pupil numbers have plummeted from 71 to just 15 in two years. Cradoc school, part of Ysgol Golwg Pen-y-Fan since 2024, is set to close its doors at the end of August, following a Powys County Council meeting. The decline started after its amalgamation with Mount Street infants and junior school in Brecon. The plan was always to eventually consolidate into a new school building in Brecon, but construction delays mean that won’t happen until at least 2027/2028.
Cllr James Gibson-Watt explained that handling the school operations across three sites is simply too challenging. Importantly, he emphasised that the closure aims to improve educational outcomes rather than just save costs, although the council would save £262,000. Despite some local opposition, noting discrepancies in the school’s capacity figures, council members unanimously agreed to move forward with the closure process.
The next step involves another consultation where objections can be raised. It’s a decision that undoubtedly strikes a chord with the local community, affecting families and pupils who call this school theirs. The closure echoes similar fate faced by other small schools in the area due to declining numbers. Stay tuned as this story develops and the council navigates the next phases. Let us know your thoughts on the impact this might have on the community!