Birchgrove Primary School's positive culture and strong leadership have been highlighted in an inspection report by Estyn, His Majesty's Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales.
Inspectors found the school to be an inclusive and happy learning community, with pupils showing excellent behaviour and a positive attitude towards learning. The school's commitment to fostering a strong culture of care and understanding is evident.
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, Sarah 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.
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."
Overall a positive report, Estyn has 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, Sarah Merry said: "Estyn has 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."
At the time of inspection Birchgrove Primary School, had 401 students on roll. 9.76% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, 4.3% identified as having additional learning needs and 16.4% have English as an additional language.
Estyn's inspections 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.
You can read the full report here.
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