Anger as review on futures of three small Welsh medium schools launched

THE futures of three small rural schools in the Conwy Valley are under discussion.

- By ANDREW FORGRAVE Countryside and Tourism Editor

All three are Welsh medium sites and while no decisions have been made, there is concern that one may ultimately close and be amalgamated due to low pupil numbers.

All are primary schools belonging to the Capel Coed-Elan Federation Schools group in the upper Conwy valley. They are said to be the "backbone" of their communities but Conwy Council is carrying out a review to ensure they remain "sustainable and responsive to local needs".

As is typical of rural primary schools, pupil numbers are small. Ysgol Betws-y-Coed has 14 and nearby Ysgol Capel Garmon has 15. At the head of the valley, Ysgol Dolwyddelan has 21.

In their most recent Estyn reports, all three were rated "good" and described as "welcoming", "caring" and "happy".