The new primary building is part of a project that will extend the age range at what was formerly the Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw Site from 11-18 to 3-18. Funding was provided by the Welsh Government as part of its initiative to increase the number of Welsh speakers in Wales to 1 million by 2050.
Torfaen Borough County Council appointed Morgan Sindall to provide space for 210 primary aged school pupils, as well as a nursery for 30 pre-school pupils, the building will also accommodate an integrated childcare facility. From September 2022 the school will be known a Ysgol Gymraeg Gwynllyw.
The two-storey, 2,000 square metre building – designed by Austin-Smith:Lord architects – houses nine general purpose classrooms. Outside there is a MUGA (multi-use games area) court, as well as a wildlife habitat area for learning, an informal play area and grass areas.
The project targeted a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating for sustainability. Natural features have been introduced wherever possible and sustainable drainage schemes such as swales and ponds filled with plants to help with water filtration and to act as a natural habitat for wildlife. The building also has a rainwater harvesting system and a green cycle shelter roof with layers of vegetation.
Construction began in January 2021 and was completed in Spring 2022.
Rob Williams, area director for Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “We are proud to have been selected to deliver this new primary school and nursery for the council.
“It is an important investment in the education offering for the local area and, importantly, will support teaching in Welsh. The new building reflects the Welsh government’s desire for modern, 21st century campuses with state-of-the-art teaching spaces and a focus on sustainable design.”
We were appointed by Morgan Sindall to create design layouts for the new building, specify suitable primary school products and finishes. Despite restrictions imposed by Covid during the design engagement process the project team were able to meet regularly via ‘teams’ and ‘face to face’ in order to recommended quality products to compliment the finishes to the building . Our design team have vast experience of space planning inspiring teaching and learning environments to BIM level 2 compliance.
We would like to thank Morgan Sindall and Torfaen County Borough Council for supporting their local supply chain. We look forward to working with you again soon.
For further information on this project or any of our case study projects please contact lucy@ministryoffurniture.com