A Cardiff primary school has been praised for providing a caring and inclusive environment where pupils feel safe, supported and motivated to learn.
Bishop Childs C.I.W. Primary School in St Mellons received positive findings in its latest Estyn inspection, with inspectors highlighting pupils’ attitudes to learning, strong relationships across the school and support for children with additional learning needs.
Nearly all pupils were found to demonstrate positive attitudes towards school, behave respectfully and engage purposefully in lessons and wider school life.
Inspectors also highlighted the positive learning environment created by the school and the strong working relationships between staff and pupils.
Estyn praised the school’s collaborative approach to teaching and learning, finding that many teachers use effective questioning and feedback to deepen pupils’ understanding.
Most pupils were found to read, write and communicate confidently, while also developing secure mathematical and digital skills through meaningful learning experiences.
The inspection highlighted the school’s positive safeguarding culture, with pupils feeling safe and confident that members of staff will support them when needed.
Effective leadership and strong self-evaluation processes were also recognised, alongside a successful approach to distributed leadership that allows staff to play an active role in improving the school.
Headteacher Nicola Price said: “I am extremely proud of our whole school family. This report reflects how our amazing pupils, inspirational staff, dedicated governors and supportive parents work together to provide the very best educational opportunities for all. Staff and governors are also pleased that Estyn agreed with the next steps we had already identified and we’re really looking forward to continuing our ongoing journey of improvement.”
Inspectors made two recommendations for the school’s continued development.
These include providing further opportunities for pupils to apply their numeracy skills in authentic contexts across the curriculum and developing pupils as independent creative thinkers.
The report also includes a “Spotlight” section recognising the school’s collaborative approach to leadership. Inspectors noted that governors and school leaders have established a strong values-led vision that places the wellbeing of pupils and staff at the heart of the school’s work.
Cllr Sarah Merry, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “I am delighted that Estyn has recognised the caring and inclusive environment created at Bishop Childs CIW Primary School and the commitment of staff, governors and leaders to ensuring every child is supported to achieve their potential.
“The report highlights the positive attitudes of pupils, the strong relationships across the school community and the effective support provided for learners, particularly those with additional learning needs. It is also pleasing to see Estyn recognise the school’s strong leadership and culture of continuous improvement.”
