Ysgol Estyn in Hope receives glowing report from inspectors

A Flintshire primary school has received a glowing report from inspectors.

Ysgol Estyn in Hope was visited by officials from the Welsh education watchdog in June.

Their findings have now been published and show that the school’s performance was good across all fives areas assessed.

Inspectors from Estyn described the behaviour of the 238 pupils taught at the school on Hawarden Road as ‘exemplary’.

They also commended teachers for providing high levels of care, support and guidance to youngsters.

In their report, they said: “Ysgol Estyn is an inclusive, calm and welcoming community, where staff encourage pupils to become resilient learners and try their best.

“Nearly all pupils demonstrate a positive attitude to their work and they approach tasks with a sense of ambition.

“Nearly all pupils make good progress during their time at the school.

“Staff track pupils’ progress carefully to ensure that the school meets their needs effectively.

“Pupils have many opportunities to participate in all aspects of school life, including the wide range of extracurricular activities on offer.

“They take great pride in their school.”
The inspectors said staff work effectively as a team and encourage a high level of involvement from parents.

They said this increased the chance of pupils making good progress at the school.

Estyn officials also made a small number of recommendations for improvement, including developing opportunities for youngsters to make choices about what they learn and improving ICT provision.

The school has also been asked to address several health and safety issues identified during the inspection.

The inspectors added: “The school’s arrangements for safeguarding pupils meet requirements and give no cause for concern.

“However, the inspection team identified several areas of concern relating to health and safety matters, which they brought to the attention of senior leaders and the governing body.”

Staff will now be required to draw up an action plan to meet the recommendations made.

By Liam Randall – Local Democracy Reporter (more here).