Sixth form plans a “welcome step forward” for Wrexham secondary school

Work is set to begin on creating a brand new sixth form at a Wrexham secondary school.

The Mayor of Wrexham, Cllr Andy Williams, performed the official “turf cutting” at Ysgol Morgan Llwyd yesterday alongside Chair of Governors Aled Roberts and Headteacher Eleri Lewis.

Over the years there have been calls to expand the offering at the school and Welsh-medium education across the county borough due to an increase in demand.

In May 2018 an application was submitted outlining plans for the site and seeking permission to press ahead with the development.

The plans include the “erection of a sixth form teaching block for Ysgol Morgan Llwyd, erection of associated enclosure to new sprinkler tank and pump and demolition of single storey building.”

Such plans were approved at the end of June and Wrexham Council say funding is in place – meaning work can now begin.

Speaking at yesterday’s turf cutting, Mr Roberts described the plans as a “welcome step forward for the school”.

He said: “Having a new and modern facility dedicated for sixth form will be a great asset for us and will encourage more students to remain with us to study for their A-levels and Welsh Bac through the medium of Welsh.”

As part of the new build Wrexham Council say that that more space at the school will be freed up ready for further investment to increase the capacity at secondary level to secure Welsh secondary medium education in Wrexham

The new building will cost £1.55million and is funded by both Welsh Government’s Band A 21st Century Schools Programme and Wrexham Council.

The works themselves will be undertaken by Read Construction of Wrexham and is scheduled for completion in late 2019.

Lead Member for Education, Cllr Phil Wynn, said: “This is part of our ongoing commitment to improving the educational environment for pupils and staff and I know it will be greatly appreciated by both.

“I would like to thank the Welsh Government for their continued support of Wrexham schools and of course officers for their hard work in securing funding.”

Richard Heaton, managing director of Read, added: “Read are delighted to be undertaking yet another scheme with Wrexham Council to provide a 21st Century learning environment.

“We will be working with the school and community throughout the works to minimise disruption, whilst maximising social value.”