Brecon High School is marking a significant turning point after inspectors confirmed the school has been removed from special measures following a successful Estyn visit in November.

The decision comes after focused work by staff, governors and the entire school community to address concerns raised in its previous core inspection. Estyn inspectors reported sufficient progress in every area they had been monitoring.

Inspectors highlighted a “positive trajectory” in GCSE results over the past three years, with notable gains among more able pupils and boys. Girls’ results have also improved, though progress for pupils eligible for free school meals remains inconsistent.

Attendance has also risen sharply. Rates for 2024/25 sit above the national average, supported by targeted initiatives such as the Year 11 “Return to Learn” programme and a Year 9 resilience day. Reward schemes - including termly draws, a virtual shop and weekly points - were found to be helping attendance improve across the school, with pupils’ views shaping the incentives.

Teaching and learning were found to be more consistent, with professional development helping staff to plan lessons that challenge pupils and build effectively on prior knowledge.

Estyn said leadership had strengthened considerably. The interim headteacher, now appointed permanently, was credited with driving improvements in self-evaluation and pupil well-being. Senior leaders were described as “collegiate” and clearer in their strategic direction, while middle leaders reported feeling more valued and better supported.

The school’s finances were also found to be on a firmer footing. Close working with Powys County Council has helped stabilise the budget, with the school projecting an in-year surplus for the first time in several years, though a significant deficit remains.

Estyn also confirmed that a previous health and safety issue was resolved when the school moved to its new site.

Headteacher, Rob Edwards, said: “We are thrilled that Estyn has recognised the significant progress we’ve made as a school. This achievement reflects the teamwork and commitment of our entire school community – the unwavering support of parents and carers, the dedication of our exceptional staff, and the brilliance of our truly amazing students.

“Our motto is ‘Getting better never stops’, but today we pause to celebrate and reflect on the hard work that has brought us here. This is not the end – it’s the beginning of even bigger and better things for our pupils as we continue to strive for excellence.

“Thank you to everyone who has played a part in this journey. Together, we are building a future full of opportunity and success.”

Rhiannon Evans, the school’s Chair of Governors, said: “The governing body is delighted with this outcome. It marks a significant step forward for our community and reflects the hard work, dedication and commitment of all involved to make Brecon High School the best it can be.

“The governing body is proud of the progress achieved and will continue to work closely with the school to ensure standards continue to rise.”

Cllr James Gibson-Watt, the council’s Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: “This is excellent news and reflects the hard work and commitment of the whole school community and the council’s ongoing support for school improvement. I want to thank everyone involved for achieving this significant milestone.”

Dr Richard Jones, the council’s Director of Education, added: “This achievement is testament to the dedication of staff, pupils, and governors. The headteacher and leadership team have established a clear and ambitious vision for improvement, and this progress will raise aspirations even higher.”