CARMARTHENSHIRE County Council’s Cabinet has agreed to issue statutory notice to close Ysgol Llansteffan at the end of the summer term of 2026 and enter a statutory consultation period with Ysgol Meidirim and Ysgol Y Fro.
The statutory consultation period will run from January 13 – February 24, 2026.
Each of the schools have been identified based on criteria set out within the Modernising Education Programme, approved by Cabinet in November 18, 2024:
- Extremely low pupil numbers at each school
- High surplus places
- High number of pupils living within catchment are attending other schools
- Pupil projections suggest that there is little likelihood of pupil numbers increasing dramatically over the next few years
- Deficit budget or projected deficit budget within the next financial year resulting in unsustainable financial situation
- Quality and standards of education is varied
Cabinet agreed to temporarily pause proceeding to consultation with Ysgol Pontiets due to its location adjacent to Ysgol Carwe which is currently unsuitable for use due to structural issues identified before the start of the 2025/26 school year.
Ysgol Carwe has been able to take advantage of arrangements within its Federation and consider continuity in learning and recognition of staff from the pupils. The decision was therefore in line with the wishes of the Carwe Governing Body to move the pupils to Gwynfryn.
Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Glynog Davies said: “We of course understand how difficult this is for the schools involved and wholeheartedly sympathise with the parents, staff, governors and local members.
“It is important to note that no decisions have been made with regards to Ysgol Meidrim and Ysgol y Fro and a consultation process will provide an opportunity for those school communities to have their say as part of the decision-making process.”
