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South Wales Argus

Libanus Primary School, Blackwood, praised by Estyn

Libanus Primary School, in Libanus Road, Blackwood, was given the positive feedback following an inspection by Estyn, His Majesty's Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales, in March 2025. (Image: L Richards) The school, which has 337 pupils, was praised for its strong leadership, well-planned curriculum, and the high-quality support it provides to pupils with additional learning needs. (Image: L Richards) Inspectors found that the school "provides a warm, friendly, nurturing environment that promotes pupils' personal, social, and emotional development very well." They said the headteacher has a "clear vision, leads with strong direction, and creates a safe and inclusive learning environment." (Image: L Richards) The report also highlighted the school's focus on meeting the well-being needs of all pupils, and the high-quality support provided to pupils with additional learning needs. The school's curriculum was described as "well-planned" and offering "interesting and motivating learning experiences." (Image: L Richards) Teachers were praised for effectively challenging and supporting pupils, with most pupils making good progress across all areas of learning. The school's approach enables pupils to apply their literacy and numeracy skills to other areas, work independently, and improve their skills. (Image: L Richards) The development of pupils' creative, physical, and digital skills were identified as strengths of the school. (Image: L Richards) Inspectors found that staff build "strong relationships with pupils and set high expectations," resulting in pupils having positive attitudes to learning and displaying "exemplary behaviour." (Image: L Richards) Pupils were found to have a strong voice in the school and are keen to take on leadership responsibilities. They are proud of the changes that their work has brought about, such as highlighting what pupils should do if they experience any bullying. The report also praised the school's effective partnership work with parents and external agencies, which promotes good attendance. (Image: L Richards) Robust procedures for monitoring and evaluation ensure continuous improvement in pupil performance and teaching standards. Governors were found to provide valuable support, have a good knowledge of the school's work, and contribute well to school life. (Image: L Richards) However, the report did identify one area for improvement. It recommended that the school should "continue to improve pupils' Welsh language speaking skills and provide more opportunities for them to use Welsh around the school." The school will now draw up an action plan to address this recommendation. (Image: L Richards) Headteacher Nicola Williams said: "We are thrilled with our report and that the inspectors recognised so many of our strengths. "Our success is due to the hard work of our amazing team of staff, our dedicated governing body, our supportive families and our wonderful pupils. "I am extremely proud of what we have achieved and of the high level of education and care that we provide every day in our warm, friendly, nurturing environment."