Two primary schools in Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) could be closed and pupils moved to new schools under council plans. Tref-Y-Rhyg Primary School in Tonyrefail and Trallwng Infants School in Pontypridd could close, with pupils moving to Tonyrefail Community School and Coedpenmaen Primary School respectively.
The council said it is considering the move in response to falling pupil numbers and forecast surplus places at the schools, which will impact their financial viability and the experience of pupils. The proposal to close Tref-Y-Rhyg Primary School would see pupils move to Tonyrefail Community School by no later than September 2025, with the catchment area of Tonyrefail Community School being extended.
A cabinet report highlighted issues at Tref-Y-Rhyg Primary, including declining pupil numbers, need for major repairs or refurbishment, and non-compliance with the Equality Act 2010. The council stated that all Tref-Y-Rhyg Primary pupils could be accommodated by Tonyrefail Community School, which provides first-class education and sports facilities.
The proposal to close Trallwng Infants’ School would see pupils transferring to nearby Coedpenmaen Primary School by September 2025. Trallwng Infants’ has seen a significant decrease in pupil numbers and does not fully comply with the Equality Act 2010. Coedpenmaen Primary, which would accommodate all current Trallwng Infants’ pupils, has made progress after being removed from the list of schools requiring special measures.
Both sets of schools have safe walking routes for pupils, and there is an option for pupils to receive education in Welsh in both communities. The council has not made decisions about the empty school sites yet. The proposals will be presented to the council’s cabinet on September 23 for potential consultation.
These potential closures and relocations aim to address the financial viability and standards of education in the affected schools, providing a clearer vision for the future of education in Rhondda Cynon Taf.