Purpose-built education base at St Cyres helps pupils thrive

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A purpose-built education base is helping pupils learn in a way that works best for them.

The Physical and Medical (PMed) base, located at St Cyres School in Penarth, was designed for pupils with additional learning needs who require adapted support within a mainstream school environment.

The new base aims to provide inclusive, high-quality education while helping students remain connected to the wider school community.

Year 11 pupil Zach has said that the PMed base in St Cyres has been a massive help to his educational journey already (Image: Vale of Glamorgan Council)

Zach, a Year 11 pupil at St Cyres said the new facilities have already made a significant difference to his learning journey:

He said: "It's a very helpful place for students and pupils like me.

"I wouldn't be able to access any form of education without it, as I'm not in mainstream school.

"There's a lot more open space which allowed for a lot more communication with a lot more different people simultaneously."

Councillor Rhiannon Birch, cabinet member for education, arts and the Welsh language at Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: "The new PMed base at St Cyres is about making sure every learner has the support they need to succeed.

There are a number of dedicated spaces including the classrooms (Image: Vale of Glamorgan Council)

"By investing in high-quality, inclusive facilities like this, we are helping pupils to access education in a way that works for them, while remaining part of their school community.

"Hearing directly from pupils about the positive difference this space is making shows just how important this kind of provision is, and we are proud to support schools in delivering environments where all learners can thrive."

The extension opened to pupils in January 2026 and includes accessible toilet facilities, a hygiene and physiotherapy room, a sensory, rest and recovery room, an open-plan learning space, and two dedicated study rooms.

The layout is designed to provide a calm, flexible environment that meets individual learning and wellbeing needs.

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