The Education Scrutiny Performance Panel met to discuss the progress of Clydach Primary School's improvement plan and its Estyn inspection outcomes. The panel heard from the school's leadership and governors about the significant strides made in addressing recommendations and improving the school's provision. The panel also reviewed its work plan for the upcoming year.

Clydach Primary School Improvement

The panel received a comprehensive update on the progress made at Clydach Primary School since its Estyn inspection in November 2022, which placed the school in special measures. The school's Deputy Headteacher, David Rowe, and the newly appointed Headteacher, Ben Jones, presented the improvements made in response to the five Estyn recommendations.

A key focus of the presentation was the dramatic improvement in staffing stability. Previously, the school faced significant challenges with staff absences and a lack of key leadership roles. Now, the school has a full complement of teaching staff, a substantive Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher, and a stable Senior Leadership Team. This has been instrumental in fostering a calmer and more supportive environment for both staff and pupils.

Significant progress has been made in establishing stable and effective leadership, improving communication with all stakeholders, and enhancing self-evaluation processes. Estyn's reports noted a notable improvement in the quality of provision across nearly all classes, with teaching consistency positively impacting pupil progress and well-being.

The school has also been actively developing its curriculum in line with the Curriculum for Wales, introducing overarching themes and a consistent approach to writing. A new phonics system has been implemented, and pupil voice initiatives have been strengthened, giving children a greater sense of ownership. Professional learning for staff has been a priority, with a focus on addressing the post-inspection action plan and encouraging collaboration and the sharing of best practices.

Despite these successes, the school faces ongoing challenges, including a significant deficit budget, which impacts spending and staffing. The school is also anticipating a move to a single site, which will involve significant capital investment and repairs to the older infant building. The pace of change and the demands on staff have been challenging, but the school leadership is prioritising staff well-being.

The Chair of Governors, Julian Nicolls, highlighted the governing body's priorities, including their involvement in the post-inspection action plan, gathering first-hand evidence, and supporting staffing decisions, including the recruitment of the new Headteacher. The governing body has also focused on strengthening its committee structures and providing relevant training for its members.

The school expressed gratitude for the support received from the local authority, particularly from School Improvement Advisor Sarah Loydon, and from Partneriaeth in curriculum development. The interim headteacher, Alison Christofferson, was also thanked for her invaluable support during the transition period.

During the question and answer session, councillors praised the significant turnaround at Clydach Primary School. Councillor Angela O'Connor enquired about the retention of original staff, and it was clarified that while leadership roles have changed, the overall staff complement is now in place and working. Councillor Matthew Bailey commended the improved communication with parents, including newsletters and the school app, and raised concerns about potential school site closures, which was clarified as a move to a single site rather than a school closure. Councillor Bridget Rowlands expressed her thanks for the school's transformation, noting that parents were previously considering removing their children. Councillor Sandra Joy asked about the timing of the next Estyn visit, with an expectation of it being pretty soon and a hope for the school to come out of special measures by Christmas.

Work Plan for 2023/2024

The panel noted the work plan for 2023/2024. The planned visit to Bishopston Comprehensive School on 13 March 2024 was postponed to July 2024 to allow the school to manage its current circumstances. The next meeting of the panel was scheduled for 18 April 2024.