Part of the community and a great example of capital investment
THE new multi-million pound Ysgol Hafod Lon, which educates children and young people with additional learning needs within the Meirionnydd and Dwyfor area, was officially opened last week.
On hand was Alun Davies, the Minister for Lifelong Learning and Welsh Language, and Gwynedd Council Chairman, Cllr Eric M Jones.
Ysgol Hafod Lon which is located in Penrhyndeduraeth, provides places for up to 100 children and replaces the former Ysgol Hafod Lon that served generations of children in Y Ffôr.
The £13 million school has been jointly funded by Gwynedd Council and Welsh Government, through its 21st Century Schools and Education Programme. The new school which plays a crucial part in securing specialist provision for children with additional learning needs provides a first-class educational environment for pupils in the Meirionnydd and Dwyfor area, with 84 pupils already attending the new school.
Speaking at the official opening, the Minister said: “It is a real pleasure to be here today to officially open Ysgol Hafod Lon and see the results of £13 million capital funding.
“The facilities here are excellent and both the pupils and staff are benefiting from what is available here. It is an example of how capital investment makes a real difference. It is very much a school that is part of the community.”
Cllr Gareth Thomas, Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member for Education noted: “The new ysgol Hafod Lon underlines our commitment to ensuring that all Gwynedd’s children and young people have the best start in life and achieves their full potential.
“Ysgol Hafod Lon is a great example of a real team effort between Gwynedd Council, the Welsh Government, the school itself, its governors and the wider community to achieve this aim and it’s fantastic to see the pupils already making the most of this wonderful new school
“As well as providing pupils and teachers with the modern learning and a working environment that is fit for purpose, the new school building also meets high standards in sustainable building design, construction and operation, as well as an outstanding environmental performance.”
Ysgol Hafod Lon Headteacher, Donna Roberts added: “For both pupils and staff, this entire process has been a very exciting experience, as we were given the opportunity to view the site at different stages of its design and build. The children and staff are delighted to be in their new school. I firmly believe that the pupils will benefit greatly from the new building and the fantastic facilities on offer.”
The new school features modern, wellequipped classrooms, as well as a hydrotherapy pool, therapy rooms, sensory equipment, and outdoor play and learning facilities as well as a short break/residential unit. A garden and café is also part of the school, providing an environment for older pupils to develop their entrepreneurial skills.