Ysgol Bro Eirwg Praised for strong leadership and rich learning environment in latest Estyn inspection

Ysgol Bro Eirwg, a Welsh-medium primary school located in Rumney, has been highly commended by Estyn, His Majesty's Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales, in its most recent inspection report.

Ysgol Bro Eirwg, a Welsh-medium primary school located in Rumney, has been highly commended by Estyn

The school, which is part of the Ffederasiwn y Ddraig federation, has been recognised for its clear leadership, supportive environment, and commitment to nurturing pupils' pride in their Welsh identity.

Inspectors noted that the headteacher, in collaboration with senior leaders, provides clear and effective leadership that has significantly contributed to the consistency in the school's provision and the holistic education of its pupils. The effective cooperation within the federation and with Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Bro Edern's cluster schools has further strengthened this leadership.

The school has created a supportive environment that prioritises high-quality care and well-being for its pupils and this positive atmosphere is reflected in the pupils' behavior and attitudes towards each other and adults.

The report recognises the school's highly effective self-evaluation and planning for improvement processes and the way in which leaders skillfully used gathered information to enhance the school's provision, particularly in developing a stimulating learning environment that fosters curiosity and confidence among the youngest pupils.

The school has created a supportive environment that prioritises high-quality care and well-being for its pupils

Teachers at the school are commended for planning purposeful opportunities that develop a strong sense of community and Welsh identity among pupils and the school provides a wide range of valuable experiences that broaden pupils' horizons and contribute to their overall development.

Although most pupils enter the school with Welsh-speaking skills below the expected level, they make substantial progress during their time at the school and by the end of their time at Ysgol Bro Eirwg, most pupils are able to communicate confidently in both Welsh and English.

Estyn has invited the school to prepare a case study on its successful approach to creating a rich and stimulating learning environment. This case study will be shared on Estyn's website to benefit other schools across Wales.

Teachers at the school are commended for planning purposeful opportunities that develop a strong sense of community and Welsh identity among pupils

Headteacher Iwan Ellis said: "I am delighted with our Estyn report and thrilled that we have been asked us to write a case study sharing our outstanding practice in the nursery and reception classes. The report confirms that the school is a successful learning community, that the pupils are happy and polite, and that the relationship between staff and pupils is a strength.

"Ysgol Bro Eirwg is part of Ffederasiwn y Ddraig and I am extremely proud that the Estyn report highlights the success of our Federation, that both schools, Ysgol Bro Eirwg and Ysgol Pen y Pîl, collaborate effectively to ‘create a successful learning community that celebrates Welshness, provides care and respect well and offer valuable experiences for pupils. Pupils' pride in their school, their local area and Wales can be felt clearly within the learning environment.' This is the result of the hard work and dedication of all staff to ensure the best possible education for all our pupils."

A positive report, Estyn has made one recommendation which the school will address in its action plan; to develop its Welsh reading provision to better support pupils in understanding texts across all areas of learning.

Cardiff's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "Staff, pupils and the school community should bee proud of this report, and Estyn clearly recognise the progress made by pupils during their time at Ysgol Bro Eirwg and the strong sense of community fostered at the school.

"The headteacher and staff have shown commitment to working hard to ensure all pupils receive the best possible education and develop a deep appreciation for their Welsh heritage."

At the time of inspection, Ysgol Bro Eirwg had 391 pupils on roll with 28.9per centof pupils eligible for free school meals. 2.7per cent of pupils identify as having additional learning needs and 24.4per cent of pupils speak Welsh at home.