Ysgol Calon Cymru removed from significant improvement list

Ysgol Calon Cymru has been removed from the list of schools requiring significant improvement after inspectors recognised progress made since its previous inspection.

Estyn made the decision following a monitoring visit in October, judging that the Builth Wells and Llandrindod Wells school had made sufficient progress against the recommendations from its last full inspection.

Inspectors highlighted improvements in teaching and learning, leadership and improvement planning, as well as action taken to address previously identified health and safety concerns.

The report said a reorganisation of the school's leadership had brought greater clarity and direction to its strategy for improving teaching.

Staff training and a coaching programme had supported improvements in teaching, particularly in questioning, modelling and the use of learning intentions.

Inspectors found that in most lessons teachers established positive relationships with pupils, demonstrated secure subject knowledge and planned activities which helped develop their understanding.

They said improvements in teaching had contributed to many pupils making expected progress, while stronger self-evaluation and improvement planning had contributed to "tangible improvements in teaching and notable recent gains in examination performance".

However, the report also identified areas where further work is needed.

Inspectors found that in a few lessons pupils were not making enough progress because activities did not provide sufficient challenge, the pace of learning was too slow or teaching did not adequately meet pupils' differing needs.

They also said expectations of pupils' Welsh-language use in Welsh-medium lessons were not high enough in some cases.

Although opportunities for pupils to develop their literacy and numeracy skills have improved, Estyn said the development of digital skills across the curriculum remained limited, with curriculum planning and staff training still at an early stage.

The report also highlighted the need to improve opportunities for pupils studying through the medium of Welsh to develop the quality and accuracy of their written work.

Previous health and safety concerns have been addressed with support from Powys County Council.

Estyn said: “Fencing around both the Llandrindod and Builth sites is now complete. There are appropriate arrangements in place to identify and ensure the safety of sixth form pupils, including lanyards and electronic sign-in arrangements. The leisure centre is closed to the public during school hours. The school’s traffic management arrangements have been strengthened. As a result of these improvements, the school site is now more secure.”

Headteacher Lee Powell said: "This outcome is a proud moment for Ysgol Calon Cymru and the communities we serve. Estyn’s feedback clearly highlights the positive working relationships across our classrooms, the high expectations we set, and the verve and enthusiasm our staff bring to teaching every day.

"Our learners have risen to the challenge, and this judgment recognises their hard work and progress. We look forward to continuing our work with the local authority as we build on this momentum and continue to enhance the educational experience for all our young people."

Powys County Council's cabinet member for a Learning Powys, Cllr James Gibson-Watt, said: "This is very positive news for Ysgol Calon Cymru and reflects the considerable work that has taken place to secure improvements for learners.

"I would like to congratulate pupils, staff, the leadership team and governors for their commitment and thank everyone who has supported the school on its improvement journey.

"There is still work to do, but being removed from significant improvement is an important milestone and provides a strong foundation to build on."

Councillor Gareth Jones, Chair of Governors added: “This is an important and encouraging step forward for Ysgol Calon Cymru. Governors are proud of the commitment shown by staff and pupils and the sustained work that has contributed to this positive outcome.

“We remain focused on supporting and challenging the school as it builds on the progress made.”