In a significant step forward for inclusive education, a new post-16 provision has been successfully established at Vision House to support learners from Pen-y-Cwm School. This development comes in response to sufficiency challenges at the main school site and reflects a strong commitment from °¬˛ćAƬ Council to meeting the needs of learners with Additional Learning Needs.
The provision, which opened in June 2025 for the final term of the 2024/25 academic year, initially welcomed over 20 learners. This number is set to rise to more than 35 learners in September 2025, highlighting the increasing demand for high-quality, tailored educational environments for young people with ALN.
Funded through the Council’s ALN Budget, the project has transformed Vision House on the Festival Park site, Ebbw Vale, into a vibrant and supportive learning space. The facility now includes:
- Two modern classrooms
- A sensory room
- An Independent Living area
- A welcoming common room
- A fully equipped computer suite
- Dining facilities
These spaces have been thoughtfully designed to help learners thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, empowering them to reach their full potential in a nurturing environment.
Further enhancements are scheduled for the summer holidays, including the creation of an additional classroom on the first floor. These developments not only address immediate capacity needs but also enable longer-term strategic planning to ensure sustainable, high-quality provision for all learners.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Education, the Strategic Director for Children, Young People and Families, and senior Education officers recently visited learners and staff at the new provision.
Headteacher Deborah Herald says:
“Pen-y-Cwm School @ Vision House supports our post-16 learners as they take their next steps toward greater independence and adulthood. In conjunction with °¬˛ćAƬ Council, we have worked hard to create a welcoming environment that encourages our learners to thrive. Vision House offers a safe, supportive space where learners can continue developing essential life skills, engage in meaningful learning experiences, and prepare for life beyond school. The provision is an exciting extension of Pen-y-Cwm School’s commitment to putting learners at the heart of everything we do.”
Councillor Sue Edmunds, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People & Families says:
“This new provision is a testament to our commitment to inclusive education and to working with partners to ensure every learner has access to the resources and support they need to succeed. We are proud to be a Marmot Council and a key part of that is enabling all children, young people, and adults to maximise their capabilities and have control over their lives. We are proud of what has been achieved at Vision House and excited about the opportunities it creates for our young people attending Pen-y-Cwm School.”
