Council praises Llandysilio school on positive Estyn inspection

13 February 2026

A north Powys primary school has been praised by Powys County Council after receiving a positive Estyn inspection report highlighting the school's calm, nurturing and inclusive learning environment.

Llandysilio C.I.W. School was commended by Estyn inspectors for creating a setting where pupils feel safe, valued and supported to learn successfully.

The report, published last month (January) found that nearly all pupils behave well, demonstrate positive attitudes to learning, and show care and respect for one another - contributing to a strong, inclusive ethos.

Estyn noted that the acting headteacher has worked swiftly and effectively with staff and governors to strengthen self‑evaluation and implement purposeful improvements. The school now has a clear vision that raises pupils' aspirations and strengthens their sense of belonging within the school community.

The curriculum was praised for reflecting the school's context and capturing pupils' interests, with beneficial opportunities to learn about different cultures, develop Welsh language skills and explore the wider world. Inspectors highlighted strong progress among nearly all pupils - including those with additional learning needs and those eligible for free school meals - supported by highly tailored and sensitive wellbeing provision.

Recent professional learning has strengthened teaching in mathematics and English, contributing to improvements in basic skills across the school. Teachers also promote independence effectively through well‑designed classroom environments.

Cllr James Gibson-Watt, Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: "What stands out most in Llandysilio's Estyn report is the school's unwavering commitment to its learners. In a short period of change, the staff and leadership team have created a calm, uplifting environment where children feel genuinely supported and motivated to succeed.

"The strong relationships between pupils and staff, the renewed focus on high aspirations, and the clear improvements in core skills are all helping to ensure learners receive the quality of teaching and care they deserve. It is especially encouraging to see how effectively the school supports pupils of all abilities - including those with additional learning needs - enabling nearly all of them to make good progress from their starting points.

"As a council, we are committed to placing the learner at the heart of everything we do, and Llandysilio is a powerful example of what that looks like in practice. My thanks go to the whole school community for their dedication and the positive impact they are making on children's lives."