The primary phase curriculum at Ysgol Gymraeg Ystalyfera has been designed using the principles of the Four Purposes and the Areas of Learning and Experience (AoLE) which include the following:

• Languages, Literacy and Communication
• Mathematics and Numeracy
• Science and Technology
• Humanities
• Health and Wellbeing
• Expressive Arts

Learners are taught through cross-curricular thematic topics. Knowledge and skills from each of the above AoLE are incorporated throughout the themes along with a strong emphasis on cross-curricular skills such as literacy, numeracy and digital competency. Examples of themes in the Foundation Phase include The People who Help Us; My Square Mile and Whoosh to the Moon. In the Junior Phase, themes have included: Harry Potter; Welsh Heroes; Romans; and Rainforests.

In addition to these thematic topics, learners take part in Health and Wellbeing sessions where there is a strong focus on developing learners mental and emotional health, along with their physical health through a fun variety of Physical Education activities.

In the junior department, there is also a bespoke course to Ysgol Gymraeg Ystalyfera named ‘Dysgu Gorau Dysgu Byw’ being developed. This course focuses on developing learners’ skills to become independent, creative and inquisitive thinkers with growth mindsets who are keen to take ownership of their own learning and progress.