Estyn finds Newtown school needs 'significant improvement'

Powys County Times

a day ago

A Powys primary school was found to be in need of 'significant improvement' in a recent Estyn report.
A team of senior education officer will be called in to St. Mary's Catholic Primary School in Newtown after Estyn inspectors noted a number of issues, including children's behaviour and attendance levels.
Estyn found that the school fosters a nurturing and inclusive school community where pupils feel safe, protected, and valued
In a statement released by Powys County Council it said 'both the school and the council have accepted the report and recommendations, which will form the basis of a joint and detailed action plan to address key areas requiring improvement.
'The school and its governing body will work with council officers to identify the reasons for the inspection outcome and to deliver the improvements that are required. Staff, pupils and parents will be fully supported during the improvement journey.'
In the report inspectors noted that 'in all classes a small number of pupils display low-level disruptive behaviour that impacts negatively on their learning and that of others'.
They also found that 'while leaders have put in place whole-school procedures to improve attendance, they have not had sufficient impact on how regularly pupils come to school and their punctuality.'
There were also issues noted with the curriculum and the effectiveness of the feedback given by staff to pupils which was described as being 'inconsistent'.
Mike Bacigalupo, Chair of Governors at St. Mary's Catholic Primary School, said: "The report rightly recognises the nurturing and inclusive environment we have built at St Mary's, where pupils feel safe, valued, and supported.
"We are proud of the strong relationships between staff, pupils, and parents, and the dedication of our team to fostering a positive school culture. We fully accept the findings of the Estyn inspection and are committed to addressing the areas identified for improvement.
"We strive to ensure the very best outcomes for every child at St Mary's and we will continue to be firmly focussed on doing so.
"As governors, we will work closely with the headteacher, staff, Powys County Council, and our wider school community to implement a robust action plan.
"Whilst we acknowledge that there is important work to do - particularly in strengthening our curriculum, improving attendance, and ensuring that all pupils are consistently engaged and making the progress they are capable of - we are delighted that our strengths have been recognised by Estyn."
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This is the latest school to require intervention by Powys County Council after a report by Estyn slammed the 'poor' education services in the county.
Powys County Council's Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, Cllr Pete Roberts said: "We recognise Estyn's findings and the areas where St. Mary's Catholic Primary School must improve.
"The report offers a clear path forward, and we are committed to supporting the school's leadership in delivering the necessary changes.