The Cradoc campus of Ysgol Golwg Pen y Fan could close amid proposals being considered by Powys County Council.

The school, which opened in September 2024 by bringing together three former schools under one governing body, currently operates across three sites in Brecon and Cradoc. Plans are underway to move all pupils and staff into a new, purpose-built school on the former Brecon High School site. A contractor is expected to be appointed in early 2026, although the building is not expected to be ready by the end of that year as initially planned.

But today, the council has said that falling pupil numbers at the Cradoc campus have prompted a review of its future. According to the council, enrollment at the site fell from 71 pupils in September 2024 to 39 in September 2025, with numbers projected to drop further to 32 by September 2026.

The council says the proposal aligns with the council’s Strategy for Transforming Education in Powys, which aims to improve educational outcomes, reduce surplus places, and make school operations more efficient. They say that consolidating sites could simplify leadership, reduce travel and administrative duplication, and provide a more consistent educational offer.

Cllr James Gibson-Watt, Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: “We are committed to securing the best possible start for our learners and we believe that our Strategy for Transforming Education in Powys will achieve this.

“As part of the strategy, we need to address the high proportion of small schools in the county, decreasing pupil numbers and the high number of surplus places.

“The Cradoc campus currently has a 75 per cent surplus capacity and faces challenges in offering the same level of provision as the other sites, including access to wraparound care.

“Bringing staff and pupils together will support stronger collaboration, allow for more effective grouping by ability or need, and foster social development through larger peer groups. It also makes it more viable to run clubs, sports teams, and enrichment activities.

“We remain committed to providing a new school building for Ysgol Golwg Pen y Fan and these plans are moving forward. This proposal provides greater certainty for the school ahead of their move.”