Applications now open for Chweched Powys Sixth courses starting September 2026

30 January 2026

Applications for Chweched Powys Sixth courses beginning in September 2026 are now open, Powys County Council has announced.

Over the past year, the council has worked closely with all secondary and all‑age headteachers to review post‑16 provision and strengthen the curriculum available to learners. This partnership has led to a new regional approach to planning the offer, ensuring it better reflects the needs and aspirations of young people across Powys.

A survey of all Year 11 learners played a key role in shaping the new offer, helping identify the subjects young people most want to study. As a result, the 2026-27 curriculum will provide a significantly broader choice. Compared with the current Year 12 offer, 12 additional subjects will be available, including nine new vocational options, expanding routes into employment, apprenticeships and further study.

The number of subjects available through the medium of Welsh has also doubled, supporting the council's Welsh in Education Strategic Plan.

For 2026-27, 10 Welsh‑medium subjects will be offered, including two vocational subjects, up from five subjects and no vocational options in 2025-26. Bilingual options have also increased from nine (including three vocational) to 14 (including five vocational).

The council will continue to strengthen arrangements ahead of September 2026 as part of its commitment to high‑quality post‑16 education.

Cllr James Gibson‑Watt, Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: "We are pleased to open applications for Chweched Powys Sixth courses for September 2026. These improvements directly reflect the positive collaboration between the council and school leaders, who have worked together to ensure the curriculum is ambitious, learner‑centred and future‑focused.

"The expanded academic and vocational offer, alongside the significant increase in Welsh‑medium and bilingual opportunities, provides clearer pathways into further study, apprenticeships and employment. I encourage all learners and families to explore the wide range of choices now available."

To find out more - including the Chweched Powys Sixth prospectus, school‑by‑school information and instructions on how to apply - visit Chweched Powys Sixth - September 2026 Applications

Learners and parents/carers are also encouraged to speak to their school for guidance on the best pathway for the future.