Recent Estyn inspection recognises Birchgrove Primary School's shining stars

Birchgrove Primary School has recently undergone a successful inspection by Estyn, His Majesty's Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales which highlights the school's positive culture and strong leadership.

Inspectors found the school to be an inclusive and happy learning community, with pupils demonstrating excellent behaviour and a positive attitude towards learning. The school's commitment to fostering a strong culture of care and understanding is evident.

Inspectors found the school to be an inclusive and happy learning community

The report gives praise for the engaging curriculum, which includes a wide range of authentic and stimulating learning experiences. Teachers provide diverse opportunities for pupils to develop their literacy, numeracy, and digital skills, which they enthusiastically apply across various educational activities. Additionally, the school offers a rich selection of extracurricular activities and educational visits, further enhancing the student experience.

The headteacher, Mrs Morgan, who has been with the school since 2012, was commended for her strong leadership and for fostering a vision centered around preparing pupils for their future lives and community-focused learning. The school's governing body was also recognised for its effective collaboration with staff, pupils, and parents in supporting ongoing improvement.

Headteacher Mrs Sarah Morgan said, "The school community is delighted that inspectors recognised the excellent work of both pupils and staff as well as the school's strong identity where pupils are clearly proud of being Birchgrove Stars. We are very fortunate to have a dedicated and talented team of staff who work closely with families and Governors to ensure that the school motto ‘Where every child is a star' reflects the ethos of the school and enables all children to achieve highly."

The report gives praise for the engaging curriculum

Mrs Christine Salter, Chair of Governors, added, "Governors are very pleased that the inspectors recognised that Birchgrove Primary School is a happy and inclusive community and that pupils have a positive attitude towards their learning."

Overall a positive report, Estyn have noted two areas for improvement; the need to increase opportunities for outdoor learning and to develop pupils' skills as independent learners. In response, the headteacher and the governing body will prepare an action plan to address these recommendations and continue to create an environment where all pupils can thrive.

Cardiff Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "Estyn have acknowledged the good work taking place at Birchgrove Primary School and the report shines a light on the nurturing environment that has been established.

"I would like to congratulate the head, staff, pupils and families for achieving this positive report."

Teachers provide diverse opportunities for pupils to develop their literacy, numeracy, and digital skills,

At the time of inspection Birchgrove Primary School, had 401 students on roll. 9.76per cent of pupils are eligible for free school meals, 4.3per cent identified as having additional learning needs and 16.4per cent have English as an additional language.

Estyn's approach to inspection in schools and Pupil Referral Units across Wales no longer include summative gradings (e.g. ‘Excellent', ‘Good' or ‘Adequate') and now focus on how well providers are helping a child to learn.

The approach aligns with the personalisation of the new curriculum for Wales with inspections involving more in-person discussions, placing less emphasis on achievement data.

The school offers a rich selection of extracurricular activities and educational visits

Estyn believe that the inspection approach will make it easier for providers to gain meaningful insights that help them to improve without the spotlight on a judgement.

To read the full report, follow this link: Birchgrove Primary School | Estyn (gov.wales)

Or visit the school website: https://www.birchgrovecardiff.co.uk/