[2] The school's motto is "Nid da lle gellir gwell"[3][1] — literally, (it is) not good where capable of (being) better, i.e. never settle for second-best; or, there is always room for improvement.

[5][6][7] Many awards have also been won in The National Eisteddfod with recitation groups, choirs, drama performances, solo and duet singing, and public speaking.

In total the project cost £8.245 million, with the Welsh Government footing 50% of the investment as a part of its 21st Century Schools and Colleges Programme.

[15] The UK's response to the pandemic meant that Ysgol y Strade, like all schools, was closed until the end of June 2020.

In 2023, the school's team claimed victory over previous winner Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera to win the WRU's under 18s Welsh cup.

[23] In 2013, the school performed an original musical Grav that was based on the life of late rugby star Ray Gravell.

It attracted a large audience throughout South Wales; resulting in a shortened version being performed in the National Eisteddfod the following year in Llanelli.