Caring Clydach school going from strength to strength

PUPILS with additional learning needs are getting the support they need at a friendly, caring village school, according to school inspectors Estyn.

Craigcefnparc Primary School near Clydach was praised by inspectors for the strength of its provision for the 25% of children attending the school who need extra help in lessons.

And now the leadership team at the school and Swansea Council plan to build on the strengths as well as the insights from Estyn on how they can continue to improve in the years ahead.

Headteacher Sarah Jane Phelps said: “We are really pleased Estyn has recognised many good features of the school and what we do for the specific needs of individual pupils at Craigcefnparc.

“I’m glad to see that the inspectors recognise what we do for pupils with additional learning needs while at the same time ensuring all pupils are making progress in literacy and numeracy skills through their school lives.

“We will now continue to move the school forward and harness the talents of each individual pupil and let it shine through.”

Jen Raynor, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “Improvement in pupil attainment and building sustainable communities are among the council’s top priorities.

“That’s why it’s important to see a small community school like Craigcefnparc working hard in partnership with the council, local groups and organisations to work together to ensure children achieve their full potential.”

The Estyn inspection, which was carried out earlier this year, rated the 80-pupil school as good for learning experiences, the learning environment, care, support and guidance for pupils. Partnership working was also rated as good.

Inspectors added: “The school is a friendly, inclusive and caring community. All pupils feel safe and well supported in school. They are courteous and polite and show care and consideration for themselves and others.

“Provision for pupils with additional learning needs is a strong feature. Many parents speak highly of the school’s care and support for pupils who face specific challenges in their lives.”

The school is now working to address other areas which were rated as adequate to help all children achieve their full potential.

Christine Strong, Chair of Governors at Craigcefnparc Primary School, said: “The governors are pleased that the inspectors have recognised our strengths.

“As governors, we are absolutely committed to working with the Headteacher to focus on the areas for improvement within the school.”