Ysgol Calon Cymru

4 October 2024

A team of senior education officers will work with a Powys secondary school after Estyn inspectors felt that the school was still in need of significant improvement, the county council has said.

Despite the progress seen at Ysgol Calon Cymru since its core inspection in October 2022, Estyn is of the opinion that the school is still in need of further improvement following a monitoring visit that took place last month (September).

As a result, a team of senior education officers from the council will work with the school to secure the necessary improvements.

The report and recommendations, which have been accepted by both the school and the council, will form the basis of a joint and detailed action plan to address key areas requiring improvement.

Council officers, the school and its governing body will work together to identify 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.

Cllr Pete Roberts, Powys County Council's Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: "We fully recognise Estyn's description of Ysgol Calon Cymru progress and areas for improvement in their recommendations, which give clear guidance on what is needed to secure the necessary improvements.

"We will work closely with the school's senior leaders to make this happen as we begin this improvement journey and address the recommendations put forward by Estyn."

Rosie McConnell, Chair of Governors at Ysgol Calon Cymru, said: "While we are naturally disappointed by the outcome, we see this as an important moment for growth and development.

"We recognise the areas highlighted by Estyn that require attention and we are fully committed in addressing these recommendations.

"There are many strengths at Ysgol Calon Cymru and we remain proud of the hard work and dedication shown by both staff and learners, especially in these challenging times. Estyn have recognised the positive relationships we have with our learners, and the improved behaviour of pupils around the school and when in lessons.

"Together with the council, we have already begun working on a detailed improvement plan to ensure that we make progress over the next 12 months."

To view the inspection report visit www.estyn.gov.wales