Local school praised in Estyn inspection

Ysgol Calon y Dderwen in Newtown has been praised for its effective leadership, strong focus on well-being, and inclusive ethos in its recent Estyn inspection.

Ysgol Calon y Dderwen which is situated on Park Street in Newtown, which was formed as part of a merger between Ladywell Infants and Hafren Junior Schools has been commended by Estyn.

The inspection report highlights several notable achievements of the school, including:

1. Focus on Well-Being: Staff benefit from professional learning opportunities that enhance their ability to support pupils' well-being. Initiatives like “Y Cwtch” nurture resource provide tailored support for pupils with individual needs, underscoring the school’s commitment to inclusion.

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   Equity in Enrichment Activities: Leaders have used grant funding wisely, ensuring all pupils, including those eligible for free school meals, can access enriching experiences like residential trips. The dedication of staff to providing such opportunities has been commended.

3. Welsh Language Development: Staff’s investment in improving their Welsh language skills has inspired pupils to embrace the language enthusiastically. Many pupils now show strong progress and enjoyment in learning Welsh.

4. Inclusive Provision: The school has earned praise for its strong support for pupils with additional learning needs (ALN). Collaboration with external agencies and tailored provision ensures these pupils thrive.

Teaching and Learning

Teachers at Ysgol Calon y Dderwen effectively use learning objectives and questioning to enhance pupils’ understanding, according to the report.

However, the inspection notes areas for improvement in teaching practices, such as feedback to pupils and digital skill improvements.

The report also states that the governing body’s balanced approach to supporting and challenging the school has been highlighted as a key strength. Leaders have successfully improved well-being, reading, and Welsh language standards. However, further work is needed to enhance teaching quality and the curriculum’s ability to support advanced writing, problem-solving, and digital skills.

In a letter to parents, Headteacher, Carl Hyde said:

"Of course, as with every Estyn Inspection, some areas will need additional focus. The encouraging part of this is that we have a clear understanding of our school’s strengths and areas in need of improvement and had already identified many of these ourselves. In addition, we have also shown that we can successfully implement school improvement.

Further improving our skills programme to provide even more opportunities for pupils to develop their writing, problem solving and digital skills is something that really excites us. "

The school will now develop an action plan to address these recommendations.

Ysgol Calon y Dderwen is set to expand to incorporate Treowen C.P. School in September 2025 as part of changes to Newtown schools proposed by Powys County Council.