Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: January 22, 2026

Purpose: This report provides Cabinet with an update on planned measures to temporarily expand Welsh-medium secondary provision from September 2027 and on sustainable future growth in the sector

Content: Councillors Huw Thomas, Peter Bradbury, Lee Bridgeman and Dan De’Ath declared a personal non-prejudicial interest in this item as they have family members attending Welsh Medium Education.   Councillor Jen Burke declared a personal non-prejudicial interest in this item as she has family members attending Welsh Medium Education and she is a governor of Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf.   RESOLVED: that   1.   the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning, in consultation with Cabinet Member for Education, be authorised to undertake an engagement exercise, to:                i.  Inform the planning of temporary measures to accommodate all learners who wish to enter Welsh-medium secondary education in 2027/28.            ii.  Inform the review of Welsh-medium primary and secondary school catchment areas.           iii.  Inform the planning of long-term strategic changes to Welsh-medium secondary school provision.          iv.  Inform future priorities in Cardiff’s Welsh in Education Strategic Plan.   2.   It be noted that financial resources would need to be identified ahead of any later decisions to implement organisational or infrastructure changes.   3.   It be noted that officers will bring a report on the outcome of the engagement with stakeholders to a future meeting to inform planning and investment priorities.