Caring culture of Bryntirion Infant School is given top marks

The caring, community ethos of Bryntirion Infant School was noted as one of its key strengths in a recent Estyn inspection, which took place in April this year.

Inspectors highlighted how pupils’ wellbeing is very much at the forefront of the school, with staff knowing pupils and their families well, and supporting them sensitively when appropriate.  Inspectors also acknowledged the school as being an inclusive community, where staff are seen to have warm and positive working relationships with learners – encouraging them to thrive and fulfil their potential.

The school has also been praised for the development of pupils’ Welsh language skills, with learners freely choosing to speak Welsh during their play.

Headteacher, Katrina Pryse, said: “Staff at Bryntirion Infant School are delighted that Estyn valued the work we are doing to support our vulnerable pupils, including those with additional learning needs. Inspectors also celebrated how adults and pupils are immersed in the Welsh language, resulting in children using Welsh spontaneously. Our family and community ethos is also very much appreciated by our parents and carers. A wonderful report to feel proud of!” 

Following the development of inspection procedures to support the renewal and reform in Welsh education, Estyn inspection reports now focus on how well education providers are supporting a child to learn, rather than using the summative gradings used previously. 

Currently, Estyn inspectors consider the following categories to judge a school:

• No follow up
• Estyn review
• Significant improvement required
• Special measures required

Bryntirion Infant School, recognised as sufficiently supporting the development of its learners, needs no further follow-up from the inspection.

Cllr Jon-Paul Blundell, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “We could not be more pleased at how well Bryntirion Infant School has done in its recent Estyn inspection!  In my opinion, acknowledgement of its caring culture is the most rewarding achievement. The foundation of everything is the wellbeing of the children – if they are well supported and cared for, they can fulfil their potential.  Well done, Bryntirion Infant School! We are so very proud!”