Positive Estyn report for Cefn Mawr primary school

Estyn inspectors, commissioned by Welsh Government, visited 192-pupil Ysgol Cefn Mawr in February 2024.

Inspectors completed a series of visits to all classrooms and looked at pupils' books, discussed their work and asked them questions about the school and its daily running. Questionnaires were also submitted by parents, pupils and staff as part of the process.

The report stated: "The school has an inclusive, nurturing learning environment for pupils. The headteacher and staff work with dedication to create a warm and valued culture for pupils and the wider school community. This culture of inclusivity helps pupils to build confidence and develop their self-esteem."

Ysgol Cefn Mawr chair of governors Christine Jones and headteacher Andrea Green, with head boy Blake, head girl Lola, and prefects Michalena and Isabel.

It went on to praise the school's "exceptionally strong focus on wellbeing and emotional support, with a particular emphasis on daily physical activities and outdoor learning".

This supports pupils to behave well and engage enthusiastically in lessons, they make good progress in developing their Literacy, numeracy, digital, physical and creative skills.

Inspectors also said: "A notable strength of the school is the outstanding use of the outdoor learning areas.

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"There is daily use of outdoor learning across the school where pupils engage in purposeful activities. As a result, pupils from an early age learn to communicate, cooperate, and collaborate well with each other. Their ability to work independently is commendable."

Provision for pupils with additional learning was considered "strong", with staff carefully tailoring support to meet the needs of individuals.

The report added: "They work well with outside agencies to create bespoke packages of support when needed."

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School leadership, under headteacher Andrea Green, was also deemed positive: "The headteacher works purposefully with her senior leaders, alongside the governing body to drive school improvement. Leaders adopt an effective collaborate approach to school improvement, embracing the input of pupils, parents, community, governors and the staff."

Headteacher Andrea Green said: "We are all delighted with the findings of the report."

Cllr Phil Wynn, Lead Member of Education, visited school recently to congratulate pupils and staff on their Estyn report.

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He added: "Having the pleasure to recently meet up with the pupils, staff and head at Ysgol Cefn Mawr, I am so pleased Estyn have recognised the caring environment the school's staff have created for their pupils, a prerequisite needed for learning to take place.

"Estyn's inspection report is recognition of the good work taking place at the school."

There were two recommendations made by inspectors: improve opportunities for pupils to use their Welsh oracy skills, and consistently use suitable feedback strategies to ensure pupils know how to improve their work. The school will draw up an action plan to address these.

• A full copy of the report can be found at: estyn.gov.wales/provider/6652151