Gwernyfed High School

A team of senior education officers will work with a Powys secondary school following a disappointing Estyn inspection, the county council has confirmed.

Officers from Powys County Council, including school improvement officers, will support Gwernyfed High School after it was placed in ‘special measures’ by Estyn following a recent inspection.

Cllr Pete Roberts, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: “This is extremely disappointing but not unexpected news.

“A new management team joined the school this term who know the steps that need to be taken to ensure rapid improvement and they have already started work to make that happen.

“We now have even clearer guidance on what is needed and the council will be providing all necessary support for the school as it begins its improvement journey.”

The report and recommendations, which have been accepted by the school’s governing body senior leadership team, will form the basis of a detailed action plan to address key areas requiring improvement.

Officers will work with the school and its governing body to identify reasons for the inspection outcome and work together to deliver significant and rapid improvement. Staff, pupils and parents will be fully supported during the improvement journey.

Geoff Mesher, Chair of Governors at Gwernyfed High School, said: “The Governors are naturally disappointed with the outcome of the follow up visit. We appreciate that there is a significant amount of work to do.

“Changes have been made at top of the school’s senior leadership team and we are confident that these will enable the school to make positive progress going forwards.

“We are committed to ensuring that every pupil gets the best education possible at Gwernyfed.”

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