Local families are now benefitting from a modern new childcare space that has been created at Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Castellau – which was made possible thanks to a major investment in new facilities at the Beddau school.

The £1.5m Welsh Government-funded investment has enabled the refurbishment of two classrooms at the Welsh Medium school, to create a modern Nursery and Reception unit fit for the 21^st Century – as well as remodelling several other areas of the school to accommodate a new single storey-extension. This complements existing outdoor areas which now have brand new play equipment.

The new spaces have been enjoyed by staff and pupils at Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Castellau since September 2024, and the works have now been completed.

The investment, via the Childcare and Early Years Capital Programme, has enabled Cylch Meithrin Beddau to operate a full-time Welsh Medium childcare facility at the school – including a wrap-around childcare service each afternoon. Moving the services to a single venue with more available space is aimed at supporting growth into the school when children reach statutory school age.

Councillor Rhys Lewis, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and the Welsh Language, said: “I’m delighted young people are enjoying the new facilities at Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Castellau, and that this investment with Welsh Government has enabled Cylch Meithrin Beddau to expand their current provision to full-time. The learning environment includes 21^st Century facilities, meeting the high standards of our School Modernisation Programme – as well as our range of joint projects across Welsh Government investment programmes, that are continuing across the County Borough.

“Creating extra Welsh Medium Education capacity, including increasing access to local Cylch Meithrin and creating more Welsh Medium nursery places, are key priorities in our 10-year Welsh in Education Strategic Plan. We have also invested in multi-million pound education facilities across primary and secondary age groups – including key projects to increase capacity at YGG Aberdâr and Ysgol Rhydywaun in 2022. Meanwhile, the new YGG Awel Taf in Rhydyfelin opened in September, while the construction of a brand new school site for YGG Llyn y Forwyn in Ferndale is nearing completion.

“This latest investment for the community in Beddau has included several renewable energy sources within the design of the new extension. These include solar and wind power, along with rainwater harvesting systems – which conform to our goals and responsibilities in relation to Climate Change. The modern new facilities look absolutely fantastic, and I’m pleased that this exciting project has been delivered on schedule during the current term.”