Plans to federate East Cardiff primary schools enter consultation phase
The proposed federation would formalise this relationship and address concerns raised by Estyn, which placed St Mellons CW Primary in Special Measures in February 2025
Plans to formally federate St Mellons Church in Wales Primary School with The Saints Federation have entered a consultation phase, as Cardiff Council moves to strengthen school leadership and improve educational outcomes in the city’s east.
The Saints Federation currently comprises All Saints’ Church in Wales Primary School and St David’s Church in Wales Primary School. Since its formation in February 2024, the federation has operated in partnership with St Mellons CW Primary, with shared leadership arrangements already in place.
The proposed federation would formalise this relationship and address concerns raised by Estyn, which placed St Mellons CW Primary in Special Measures in February 2025. Inspectors highlighted the need for stable and effective leadership.
Under the plans, there would be no changes to school sites or pupil admissions. However, schools would be able to share resources, align priorities and collaborate on Welsh language provision, supporting both Cardiff’s Welsh in Education Strategic Plan and the national Cymraeg 2050 strategy.
The federation model aims to boost leadership capacity across the schools and provide a more stable governance structure. Research cited by the council, including Estyn’s 2019 thematic review and the 2023 Federation Process guidance, identifies benefits such as stronger leadership, shared staff development, and improved opportunities for learners.
Engagement has begun with the governing bodies of all three schools, along with diocesan authorities. A joint working group will guide the process, and formal consultation with parents, staff and the wider community is planned.
The cabinet is expected to approve the consultation process at its meeting on 19 June. Before that, the proposal will be scrutinised by the children and young people scrutiny committee on 10 June.
Cllr Sarah Merry, cabinet member for education of Cardiff Council’s cabinet, said: “This proposal builds on the successful collaboration already in place and represents a significant step forward in ensuring high-quality, sustainable education for children in the east of the city.
“It’s about school improvement and creating a stronger, more resilient school community that can share expertise and resources to benefit all pupils.”