Penarth’s Ysgol y Deri has once again captured national attention as A Special School, the BBC Cymru Wales documentary series filmed at the site, earns a prestigious BAFTA Cymru nomination in the Factual Series category.
The series, produced by Slam Media and directed by Ffion Humphries, offers a rare and intimate look into the daily lives of pupils and staff at the UK’s largest special school. First aired in 2020, the programme was born from a chance meeting between headteacher Chris Britten and Humphries during filming for the Pearson Teaching Awards. What followed was a three-part series that challenged stereotypes and celebrated the school’s ethos of empowerment, inclusion, and joy.
Ysgol y Deri, home to over 330 pupils, has long been recognised for its pioneering approach to special education. The documentary showcases everything from classroom learning to outdoor adventures, including a memorable trip to Exmoor. Viewers meet pupils like Luke, who uses a communication device to share his wit and intelligence, and Phil, the outgoing head boy navigating his final year.
The BAFTA Cymru nomination marks a significant moment for the school and the wider Penarth community.
The series has since inspired connections with schools across the globe and prompted renewed interest in inclusive education. A third series is due to air this December.
Winners will be announced at BAFTA Cymru’s 30th anniversary ceremony later this autumn. For Ysgol y Deri, the recognition is already a win, proof that storytelling rooted in compassion and authenticity resonates far beyond the classroom.
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