A heated debate is raging in Carmarthenshire over plans to shut down four local schools. The council says it’s grappling with declining pupil numbers and surplus spaces, making the current situation unsustainable. But Councillor Jean Lewis warns that closing schools could deeply harm rural communities and Welsh education.
Ysgol Llansteffan, Ysgol Y Fro, Ysgol Meidrim, and Ysgol Pontiets are all under review, with potential closures slated for late 2026. Some of these schools, like Ysgol Y Fro and Ysgol Meidrim, are already in a tough spot, being under “special measures” by Estyn. Former council cabinet member Peter Hughes Griffiths urges people to face realities rather than let sentiment guide them, stating, “It’s time for some common sense.”
However, not everyone agrees. Cllr Lewis, who also serves as a governor at Ysgol Meidrim, is pushing back. She argues the school is crucial for the village’s vitality and had shown improvement since the last inspection. She feels the council hasn’t fully considered the school’s response and is calling for a pause in the process until more consultation happens.
The council says it’s doing its best to engage with the community, but the clock is ticking. Questions hover over which schools can accommodate displaced students and how far they might have to travel. Concerns also include the capacity for special educational needs and transport logistics.
With public consultation on the horizon, the community’s voice is crucial in guiding the final decisions. What’s clear is this is more than a numbers game; it’s about the future of education and community life in Carmarthenshire. What are your thoughts? Keep the conversation going!