Cardiff Council has announced plans to temporarily expand Ysgol Glantaf by 60 places for the 2027-28 school year to address a projected shortfall in Welsh-medium secondary school places. The move is part of a broader commitment to ensure every child who wants a Welsh-medium education in the city is offered a place, although admission to a specific school cannot be guaranteed where demand exceeds capacity.
Demand Outstrips Supply
A survey across Cardiff examined how to handle a period when demand for Welsh-medium secondary places is expected to exceed supply in 2027-28. The council identified a single-site expansion at Ysgol Glantaf as the most effective short-term solution, according to a report to be considered by cabinet on July 16, 2026.
The council said: "This approach would help meet demand in a high-pressure catchment area while minimising disruption to existing pupils and providing clarity for families and schools ahead of the admissions process." Detailed site assessments confirmed the school can accommodate a temporary capacity increase, and planned improvements to dining and communal spaces will alleviate existing accommodation pressures.
Public Engagement Results
Earlier this year, the council carried out a public engagement exercise, receiving 393 responses from parents, pupils, staff, school governing bodies, and others through meetings and surveys. The feedback highlighted strong support for ensuring sufficient Welsh-medium places, enabling learners to attend their preferred or local school where possible, and maintaining confidence in Welsh-medium education. However, participants raised concerns about timing, pressures on school facilities, and the need for longer-term solutions.
Long-Term Planning
The 2027-28 proposals are intended as a short-term response to a temporary demand spike. The council emphasised that decisions on longer-term provision have not yet been made and will be subject to further consultation. A separate engagement exercise will explore views on longer-term solutions, including reviewing catchment areas and considering new or expanded Welsh-medium secondary provision across Cardiff. The outcome will be considered by cabinet later this year.
Councillor Sarah Merry, cabinet member for education, said: "We are committed to ensuring that every child who wishes to learn through the medium of Welsh can access a place. This temporary increase will help us meet demand in 2027/28, while we continue planning for the long-term growth of Welsh-medium education across the city."
The council reiterated that all learners who want a Welsh-medium secondary place will be offered one, though admission to a specific school cannot be guaranteed where demand exceeds available places.
