Connah’s Quay High School exits Estyn inspectors monitoring after key improvements

Connah’s Quay High School has marked a major achievement, as it is officially removed from Estyn’s ‘requiring significant improvement’ category.

The move follows an inspection last month ion which inspectors commended the school’s steady progress in transforming both its educational environment and operational structure.

The recent Estyn report celebrates Connah’s Quay High School’s significant advances since its last core inspection, with special mention of strengthened leadership, refined teaching practices, and a heightened focus on pupil well-being. Inspectors lauded “The CQHS Way,” a new approach to teaching and learning that fosters a consistent classroom experience.

“Strategies such as ‘The CQHS Way’, supported by a range of beneficial professional learning opportunities, have established a common understanding of the school’s expectations regarding effective classroom practice,” the report reads, highlighting the initiative’s success.

Senior leadership also earned praise, with inspectors acknowledging the strategic redefinition of leadership roles to better serve school priorities.

The report notes: “Senior leadership roles have been refined thoughtfully and strategically in order to meet the school’s priorities and make best use of leaders’ skills and experience.”

The school’s governing body, described as integral to the school’s recent improvements, was applauded for its evolving role.

According to the report, “Governors are now fully informed about the work of the school.

They play an increasingly important role in holding leaders to account,” demonstrating strengthened governance and commitment to accountability.

Teaching quality has seen a marked improvement, particularly in lessons with clear learning objectives and interactive engagement strategies.

Inspectors observed that “In a few particularly effective lessons, teachers plan skilfully with a clear and precise focus on what they want pupils to learn.”

Many teachers also monitor pupils’ progress effectively, offering constructive feedback to support individual learning.

Beyond academics, pupil well-being has been a priority for Connah’s Quay High School. Estyn highlighted initiatives aimed at improving students’ mental health, social engagement, and school attendance, with the report noting, “Since the core inspection, the school has taken a variety of well-considered measures to improve pupils’ well-being. This has had a positive impact on their attitudes to learning, engagement and rates of attendance.”

Headteacher James Forber expressed pride in the school’s achievement, remarking: “This marks a defining moment for Connah’s Quay High School. Our journey of transformation has been driven by dedication and hard work. I am incredibly proud of our staff, students, governors and parents for their commitment to achieving this outstanding result.”