Estyn inspection for Ysgol Merllyn in Bagillt, Flintshire
Ysgol Merllyn, Bagillt was visited by inspectors in March 2025, and was considered a "happy, caring school".
Teachers at the school, which has 133 pupils on roll, were noted to "work diligently to plan rich and meaningful activities to engage and challenge pupils' thinking", delivering an "innovative curriculum". The report added that teachers places a "strong focus on early reading skills".
Read more: "Dynamic" Flintshire headteacher "immensely proud" after Estyn inspection visit
Inspectors noted: "Teachers use questioning effectively to assess pupils' understanding and provide valuable feedback to help them to improve their work. They support pupils effectively to learn how to evaluate their own work and plan their next steps."
Of school leadership they added: "The recently appointed headteacher works effectively with staff, governors and pupils to implement a shared vision to care, believe and achieve together. The school promotes an inclusive and welcoming ethos that permeates all aspects of school life."
The school was also praised to its "strong relationships with families" and "valuable community partnerships".
Read more: Report praises Flintshire school for focus on community and Welsh culture
A notable feature of the school's provision is the support for pupils with additional learning needs (ALN) and those in need of additional support, as highlighted in report's two 'spotlights': effective assessment for learning, and effective provision for pupils with social, emotional, and behavioural needs.
Of school governors inspectors said they "are well-informed and are beginning to take an active role in the life of the school".
Headteacher Dawn Bayliss said: "I am very pleased and proud of the exceptional Estyn report our school has received.
"It reflects the care, hard work and dedication of the staff that we have in school. We are especially pleased we have been recognised for two spotlights by Estyn for the work we do in supporting children with ALN and assessment for learning.
Read more: Estyn inspectors praise "nurturing and caring" Flintshire school
"The children as always were fantastic during our Estyn visit and were proud to show the inspectors their learning and their school. The report recognises that our innovative curriculum engages our learners, providing them with a range of experiences and supports their health and wellbeing.
"I would like to thank the staff, governors and families of our school for their support as working together we strive to provide the very best for the children in Ysgol Merllyn who deserve nothing less."
Inspectors made two recommendations following their visit:
• Improve pupils' Welsh oracy skills.
• Improve continuous provision for younger pupils.
A full copy of the report can be found here: tinyurl.com/yp953f5k
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