Dylan Thomas school could close under council proposals

Swansea council has published its proposals, which include the closure of several smaller schools and the creation of a new Welsh medium primary.

The consultation exercise will see parents at every school involved in the planned changes asked for their views.

Swansea council said parents' views would be taken into account when the decision on the proposals was made.

Pupils transferred

A final decision is expected to be made by the cabinet following a meeting in August.

The proposals include a recommendation that Dylan Thomas School, in the Cockett area of the city, should be closed and the pupils transferred to Bishop Gore in Sketty.

Dylan Thomas School has 1,500 children in its catchment area but only attracts around 550 pupils, although many parents have begun a campaign to keep it open.

Other proposals include the closure of Garnswllt Primary School and the transfer of its pupils transferred to other schools in the area.

A campaign has begun to keep Dylan Thomas School open

If approved, the plans will also see Bryn Nursery close and the pupils there transfer to Townhill Primary School.

There are also plans to open a new teaching facility for children with special needs at Pontarddulais Comprehensive School and a new-build Welsh medium primary school at West Cross.

The proposals for school reorganisation were discussed by the council's cabinet last week, but Swansea council cabinet member for education, Mike Day, said no final decisions had yet been made:

He added: "Last week's cabinet made no decision to close any school.

"The cabinet is prepared to listen and take into account any ideas put forward.

"The priority is to satisfy the education needs of the children of Swansea over the coming years," he said.

"If they are implemented, they will help strengthen schools in their communities.

"But we recognise that there are other strong views out there and those views must be heard before cabinet takes a position."

A consultation document is being sent to every parent at all the schools involved.

The consultation process ends on 13 July.