The first phase of a major redevelopment programme at Portfield School has now been successfully completed, marking an important milestone in the ongoing improvement of specialist education provision in the county.
The project is jointly funded by the Welsh Government and Pembrokeshire County Council through the Sustainable Communities for Learning programme, which aims to deliver high‑quality, modern learning environments for pupils across Wales.
Developed in partnership with Morgan Sindall, the scheme has been shaped by a strong commitment to accessibility, sustainability, and the creation of spaces that cater to a wide spectrum of learning and therapeutic requirements.
This collaborative approach has ensured that the new facilities are thoughtfully designed, future‑proofed, and tailored to the needs of the school’s diverse learner population.
Portfield School, a specialist setting that supports children and young people with a range of additional learning needs, will now see its pupils benefit from a significantly enhanced learning environment.
The newly completed accommodation provides modern, flexible, and inclusive spaces for learners aged 3 to 19, helping to address the growing demand for high‑quality special educational needs provision within Pembrokeshire.
Portfield School Headteacher Sarah Hartley said: “We are delighted with the new school provision for our pupils at Portfield School. The new provision represents a significant step forward in ensuring that every pupil has access to an inclusive, supportive and inspiring learning environment where they can thrive.
“As Headteacher I am incredibly proud of how well the pupils have transitioned into the new site and adapted so quickly into their new learning environment. I am very excited to be working alongside a dedicated team of staff who share the same passion for inclusive education. Together we will build a school community where every young person can flourish.”
The new building incorporates a series of specialist features, including dedicated sensory spaces and upgraded outdoor areas designed to encourage physical activity, social interaction and emotional wellbeing.
These enhancements will ensure that pupils have access to the tailored support, resources and environments they need to learn, develop and thrive.
Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle said: “All learners deserve environments that nurture, challenge and support them, and I am pleased to be able to support learners with additional learning needs in Pembrokeshire through our Sustainable Communities for Learning programme. The specialist spaces will help us meet a wide range of needs and ensure every learner feels valued and able to thrive.”
With the completion of Phase One, the redevelopment programme continues to move forward, laying solid foundations for the next stages of work that will further strengthen the school’s ability to provide exceptional support and educational opportunities for all its learners.
Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, Cllr Jon Harvey added: “This is an exciting moment for the school, the families we support, and the wider community. The new facilities will provide pupils with the high‑quality, nurturing environment they deserve, and the first brings us closer to delivering the full vision for this exceptional school.”
The new school building represents a long‑term investment in specialist education and reflects Pembrokeshire County Council’s commitment to ensuring that every child has access to the right support, in the right environment.
Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction in Wales, Robert Williams, said: “It’s a real privilege to hand over the new Portfield School SEN facilities. This milestone reflects the hard work and commitment of our Morgan Sindall team, and it’s been fantastic to work with the Pembrokeshire County Council team to bring the project to life.
“The new facilities will make a lasting difference – providing children with a high-quality learning environment that offers the support pupils need to thrive and be inspired. With the growing demand for specialist education, it’s incredibly meaningful to help deliver the school places that local families need.”
The next phase, which commenced straight away includes the refurbishment of the former Tasker Milward H block for post 16 pupils, demolition of the existing primary school building including reinstatement works and new build respite care unit and the refurbishment of Holly House.
