14/5/2025

A group of pupils from Willows High have made history by signing their names on the steel framework of their future school building, marking a special milestone in the construction of the new state-of-the-art education facility.

The pupils earned this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity after winning a school creative writing competition which asked them to describe "what Willows High School means to them and the community". The 12 winners have been given the chance to access the live construction site where they left their signatures on the very structure that will shape the next chapter of Willows High. They were joined by Cardiff's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry and local Councillors.

Construction of the new £60 million school officially began in October 2024, delivered under Cardiff Council and Welsh Government's Band B Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme.

Morgan Sindall Construction, the main contractor appointed to design and construct the campus, will deliver a new modern, high-quality education facility for 900 learners aged 11 to 16, as well as a dedicated 30-place Special Resource Base for pupils with Complex Learning Needs.

Chris Norman, Headteacher, said: "The response to our pupil competition has been overwhelmingly positive. We are delighted that our pupils have the opportunity and desire to be involved in the process of the new build. It's been humbling and heart-warming to read the accounts of what Willows High School means to them and the pride they have in being part of our school community."

Cllr Sarah Merry, Cabinet Member for Education, said: "This is a hugely exciting moment for Willows High School and the wider community. Giving young people the opportunity to be involved in the construction of their new school not only sparks pride, but also helps them feel connected to the future of their education."

The new school will boast a wide range of facilities designed to enhance the learning experience and promote wellbeing. These include a sports hall, gym, drama studio, and grass sports pitches—all of which will be available for public use outside school hours. The project will also introduce improved pedestrian and active travel links, encouraging safer and more sustainable journeys to and from school.

Sustainability is at the heart of the project. The new Willows High l is being built to Net Zero Carbon standards in both Embodied and operationally, aligning with the Welsh Government's ambitious environmental goals.

Robert Williams, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Cardiff, said:"Today marks a significant milestone in the delivery of this transformative project for Willows High School. The steel signing ceremony not only celebrates construction progress but also strengthens the connection between these students and their future learning school.

"Building a Net Zero Carbon facility of this standard requires innovative approaches and careful planning, but the true measure of success will be how it serves these students and future generations. 

The new school is expected to open its doors in the 2026/27 academic year.