The new state-of-the-art Rhondda school for pupils aged three to 16 has been officially named Ysgol Nantgwyn.

The education facility will be on the site of the current Tonypandy Community College from September next year, and will be made up of the college along with four other schools: Ysgol Yr Eros, Tonypandy Primary, Penygraig Infants and Penygraig Junior School.

According to the school, the name Nantgwyn was chosen from a number of names in recognition of the Nantgwyn Colliery which operated on the same site more than a century ago.

Headteacher designate Kirsty Retallick said: “Ysgol Nantgwyn is one of 20 all–age schools across Wales, with an increasing number planned over the coming years.

An artist's impression of how the new Nantgwyn School is going to look

“Our new school is not the creation of a large primary and secondary school on one site but the development of a truly inclusive three to 16 school community, creating a small school ethos by embracing the best of practice from across Wales, UK and the world.

“We are very excited about the launch of Ysgol Nantgwyn in September next year and feel the name not only honours the industrial heritage of the area but firmly establishes the school as a new education facility in the Rhondda.”

The school will house pupils from five other centres

As part of the Naval Colliery Company, Nantgwyn was sunk in 1892 and at its peak, employed 1,300 colliers. It ceased operation in 1945.

Work has been taking place for more than a year to develop the new school site, which includes multi-million pound new buildings and the redevelopment of existing facilities by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and its 21st Century School investment.

The new school will benefit from a brand new primary building, state-of-the-art science, technology, art and ICT rooms, refurbished classrooms and social spaces and the refurbishment of the current main hall and canteen facilitates.

It will also have two Multi-Use Games Areas, a full-size flood lit, all-weather pitch and improved entry and exit points.

The Nantgwyn Colliery

Ms Retallick added: “By working with parents, governors and the wider community in the mid Rhondda we can make sure each and every one of our pupils make strong progress to become successful, curious, happy and ambitious young adults.

“Through our new school curriculum, structure and the care, support and guidance we offer, our aim is to see all of our children become warm, friendly, courteous, confident, energetic, engaging and industrious.

“We are highly ambitious and we want the best for every child in our care.”