Local politicians ‘blown away’ by Wrexham primary school transformation

Local politicians have hailed the ‘incredible’ transformation of a Wrexham primary school following a multimillion-pound renovation.

Clwyd South MS Ken Skates and Councillor David A Bithell recently visited Ysgol yr Hafod in Johnstown to see the results of the major revamp, which was part of the Welsh Government’s 21st Century Schools programme.

As part of the works the Victorian frontage of the school has been retained, with the inside modernised to incorporate new and older features of the existing school.

“The transformation has been incredible – I was blown away,” said Mr Skates.

“I visited the school around 12 months ago when the work was taking shape and was excited to see the final result, but it was even better than I was expecting. It looks amazing.”

The makeover has brought together 350 infant and junior school pupils on one site for the first time and funding also allowed the purchase of a neighbouring two-story home which has been converted to expand the school premises.

The work was carried out by North Wales firm Wynne Construction.

Mr Skates was given a tour by headteacher Alison Heale and chair of governors Cllr David Bithell.

He said: “The new-look Ysgol yr Hafod is an exemplar, and undoubtedly one of the best school renovation projects I’ve seen.

“That’s in no small part down to Alison and her team’s involvement in the design process and the detailed discussions and planning that went into their vision of how they wanted their school to be.

“It’s a real testament to their hard work and passion.”

Cllr Bithell said: “Ken has taken a keen interest in the school from its early days.

“The visit was welcomed by the staff, who were keen to show the fantastic learning environment we have at Ysgol Yr Hafod.

“All governors and staff have worked extremely hard with our education department and Welsh Government to secure funding for our new school.”