A New Kind of School for a New Kind of Learner

In the space of just seven months, a vision became reality in Ystradgynlais — and it’s already changing lives.

After watching a documentary about the barriers facing young people with Additional Learning Needs (ALN), local resident and former soldier Gavin Lewis decided to act. What followed was the creation of Ysgol Antur Cwm: a pioneering, outdoor-based school for boys aged 11–16 with SEMH or ADHD.

“There are so many boys being failed by a system they just don’t fit into. We wanted to build something from the ground up — a place where they can breathe, move, and grow,” says Gavin.

The school is based at Ystradgynlais Community Centre, operating with small class sizes, a personalised curriculum, and a strong focus on vocational learning and emotional development. While mornings involve structured academic lessons in Maths, English and Science, the afternoons take pupils outside — hiking, climbing, repairing bikes, or learning skills like carpentry and orienteering.

Pupils work toward a range of nationally recognised qualifications — and most importantly, leave each day feeling more confident and capable than they started.

The school is fully registered with Estyn, meeting all Independent School Standards, and placements are made via local authorities when maintained provision is not suitable.

“This isn’t about lowering expectations. It’s about raising them — just in a different way.”

With its bold curriculum, trusted team, and outdoor-first approach, Ysgol Antur Cwm is proving that a different way is not only possible — it’s working.