AM Praises Schools Challenge Cymru Impact in Wrexham

Secondary schools in Wrexham are benefiting from a £20 million Welsh Government initiative aimed at driving up educational standards.

Ysgol Bryn Alyn, Ysgol Clywedog and Rhosnesni High School have all completed their first academic year under the Schools Challenge Cymru programme.

Wrexham Assembly Member has praised each school’s progress during a visit last week with Huw Lewis AM, Minister for Education and Skills in the Welsh Government.

Over the first year, the schools have received significant investment, totalling hundreds of thousands of pounds.

As well as each school receiving substantial funding, extra support and expert advisors have also been on hand to help deliver the priorities and actions required to address the specific needs of the schools.

Ysgol Bryn Alyn, Ysgol Clywedog and Rhosnesni High School were three of 40 schools selected to take part in the multimillion pound programme, first announced in May 2014.

The schools were chosen because of its potential to make swift and lasting improvements which will benefit learners in the short term and long into the future.

School Challenge Cymru draws on the experiences of similar schemes successfully undertaken in London and Greater Manchester.

After the visits, Wrexham AM Lesley Griffiths said: “Schools Challenge Cymru is making a big difference to schools in Wrexham and the additional investment and resources are certainly having a positive impact.

“Each visit was a success and the schools are performing well. Preparations are underway for the second year of the challenge, with the three schools on track to achieving their goals.”

“I am sure the programme will bring about lasting improvements, benefiting many students in Wrexham, both in the short and long term.”