The project represents a £7.3 million investment in Welsh Medium Additional Learning Needs (ALN) provision and will create a modern, supportive environment for pupils with profound learning needs. Funded through Welsh Government’s Welsh Medium grant, the SRB will be constructed on the existing school site. Work is scheduled to begin in December, with completion expected next year.
Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf will remain open throughout the build, with only minor internal remodelling required to integrate the new facility with the current school. Designed as an extension to the school, the SRB will provide 30 places for pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and 30 places for those with Complex Learning Needs (CLN). The facility will support communication, life skills, and drama performance, and all learning will be delivered through the medium of Welsh. The project places strong emphasis on community involvement.
Plans include a shared community space, a learning kitchen and café, and access to a new performance hall—creating opportunities for students to develop social enterprise skills through real interaction with the public. Catering and hospitality education will form a core part of the provision, promoting teamwork, communication, and essential life skills. External landscaping, including a sensory garden and additional planting, will further enhance the pupil experience.
Chris Wynne, Managing Director of Wynne Construction, said: “This exciting project marks our first partnership with Cardiff Council and represents a significant addition to our growing portfolio of schools designed to support learners with additional needs. We are committed to delivering a high-quality, sustainable facility that reflects the aspirations of the school and the wider community. Supporting pupils with additional learning needs is a vital part of building an inclusive education system, and we’re proud to contribute to that vision. As with all our projects, social value will be at the heart of our approach. We will be investing in the local supply chain, creating opportunities for local businesses and employment, and fostering community engagement throughout the build. Our focus on sustainable construction practices will ensure that the project not only meets immediate educational needs but also leaves a lasting, positive legacy in the region.”
Cllr Sarah Merry, Cardiff’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, said: “We have acknowledged the growing population of learners with complex learning needs, autism spectrum conditions and emotional health and wellbeing needs and through significant proposals to expand ALN provision across the city, Cardiff is strengthening our commitment to inclusive, community-focused education. This will ensure that growing demand is met with positive, proactive steps, so that every child and young person feels a true sense of belonging, thrives in their education, and reaches their full potential. The SRB at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf will allow pupils to access a range of opportunities and skills that enrich their education and wellbeing, delivered in a modern and nurturing setting through the medium of Welsh.”
Cardiff Council continues to expand specialist placements for primary and secondary age learners.
Over the past five years, 155 additional places have been created in existing SRB provision, 14 new SRBs have been established offering up to 256 extra places, and a further 332 places have been delivered in existing special schools—helping more learners access education within their local communities.