A turf‑cutting event has formally launched construction of a new building for Brynllywarch Hall School in Kerry, delivered by SJ Roberts Construction in partnership with Powys County Council.

At the school site near Newtown, the ceremony brought together company representatives, pupils, school staff and council officials to signal the start of work on a modern, purpose‑built facility designed to meet learners' complex needs.

The development will create a high‑quality learning environment tailored for learners aged 8 to 19 who face complex emotional, behavioural and social challenges, with spaces designed to support wellbeing, engagement and aspiration.

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Cllr James Gibson‑Watt, Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: "This turf‑cutting ceremony marks a hugely important milestone for Brynllywarch Hall School and, most importantly, for the young people it supports. Seeing work begin on site is a powerful step forward in delivering the right environment for some of our most vulnerable learners."

Mike Sambrook, Managing Director at SJ Roberts Construction Ltd, added: "We are excited to see work commence on this hugely important project that will transform the provision of education for vulnerable learners in Powys. As a school that is located near to our own headquarters, we’re acutely aware of the important role this new facility will have in the local community. The whole SJ Roberts Construction team is committed to delivering a high-quality, future-proofed learning environment and we’ll be charting progress on site over the coming months."

The Welsh Government will fund 75% of construction costs, alongside an additional £700,000 to support Net Zero Carbon elements of the build, with the remaining 25% provided by the Council. Work on site will now progress, with partners committing to keep the community updated as construction advances.