Brecon’s Priory School is set to benefit from a £820,000 investment after the Welsh Government approved a funding bid to create a dedicated Children’s Centre.

The funding, which was announced by Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services Julie Morgan AM, comes after the school’s headteacher Lynsey McCrohon and St John Ward Councillor Matthew Dorrance pressed Powys County Council to develop a long-term plan for local Flying Start services.

Flying Start, the Welsh Government’s flagship policy to support families living in some of the most disadvantaged communities across Wales, was hosted at the school until it moved from St John Ward because of a lack of capacity.

The award is part of a £3 million Welsh Government capital funding scheme awarded to 50 Flying Start projects, and will see the return of Flying Start to St John Ward in a new, dedicated Flying Start centre that will be built at the school.

Priory School Headteacher Lynsey McCrohon said:

“As a school community we are thrilled with the news that we have been awarded Welsh Government funding to extend the school.

“School numbers have increased significantly over the last few years and space has been at a premium. The new extension will enable us to grow and welcome Flying Start back to Priory with a purpose built 3+ setting and a meeting room for families and health professionals.

“This will enable us to strengthen relationships, develop our Early Years settings and provide high quality early intervention to support, challenge and celebrate the talents of the wonderful children and families in our community.”

Cllr Matthew Dorrance, who is a governor at the school, added:

“I’m delighted that the Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services has given our project the go ahead and agreed £820,000 in funding.  This money will bring Flying Start services back to St John Ward, which is great news for the local community.

“The investment will create a place where children and families can be supported to reach their full potential. Now this amazing investment has been secured, I will continue to work with school, the Council and the community to deliver a centre we can be proud of”.