PUPILS at a Barry Welsh medium primary are celebrating this week after their new building was officially declared open on Thursday, October 9.

143 pupils, teachers, staff and governors saw Ysgol Gymraeg Nant Talwg become the latest school to open and one designed to meet increasing demand for Welsh medium primary education in Barry.

The multi-million pound expansion, which began in 2013, has been funded by the Vale Council and the Welsh Government as part of the 21st Century Schools programme.

Vale AM Jane Hutt and Vale Council cabinet member for children’s services, Cllr Chris Elmore cut the ribbon.

The school will eventually accommodate 210 pupils and pupils will be phased in.

Acting head teacher, Mena Roberts said pupils and staff had been involved with the design of the building right from the outset and Ewenny-based contemporary stained-glass architect, Christian Ryan had worked with the children on some eye-catching window panes featuring a rural and beach theme.

Mena said: “It was difficult for pupils to adjust because we were living on a building site. We had to get parents on board right from the outset.

“The children had quirky ideas. They wanted a zoo and a swimming pool. They were very keen on a library area and playground areas which had PTA funding.

“I lived in my hard hat and hi-vis jacket and I am sure the building contractors have been hiding from me."

Pupils can also enjoy the communal space – which they have named Hafod olau meaning the farmhouses the older Welsh people used in the winter and summer – as well as interactive Apple TVs, and touch-screen TVs, and innovative seats.

Mena said: “The building is amazing. I couldn’t have asked for anything better. I’m very proud of the building and proud to show it off to all visitors."

Chairman of governors, Geraint Evans praised the building.

He said: It’s a fabulous environment for children to learn in and it will help with the transition to Ysgol Bro Morgannwg. The closeness of the schools will help with that amalgamation. We are already seeing the benefits of the schools so close together.”

There are currently 2,526 Welsh medium education pupils in the Vale.