Oldcastle Primary School earns praise in a recent Estyn Inspection

Estyn has recognised Oldcastle Primary School as an inclusive, welcoming, and happy learning environment, with pupils’ well-being at its heart. The Education and Training Inspectorate for Wales visited the school in October 2024 to complete a comprehensive inspection.

 

The report recognised that pupils thoroughly enjoy attending school and are proud to be part of the school community. The caring nature of the staff and the respect with which pupils treat each other, staff and visitors are strong features of the school. The report also spotlights the school’s excellent work to support families and the wider community, which is a vital part of the school ethos. 

 

The inspectors noted the good progress pupils make across the curriculum, especially in reading, mathematics, and creative activities. Staff provide a curriculum that offers pupils suitable opportunities to learn about their community, local area, Wales and the wider world.

 

The Estyn report praised Oldcastle Primary School's commitment to pupil well-being, noting that the caring nature of the staff and the respect with which pupils treat each other, staff, and visitors are strong features of the school. Pupils enjoy attending school and take great pride in being part of the school community. The report also highlighted the school's success in developing pupils' confidence, self-esteem, and positive attitudes towards their education. Overall, the school’s curriculum provides pupils with beneficial opportunities to learn.

 

The report also identified the governing body's effective collaboration with the school to plan improvements and the school's robust monitoring and evaluation processes. 

 

"As a school, we welcome feedback from the Estyn report," said Mrs Ceri Littlewood, Headteacher at Oldcastle Primary School. "I am delighted that staff are recognised as providing a happy and caring environment, where staff and pupils show a high level of respect for each other. It was also pleasing to note that the inspectors recognised our excellent partnerships with families. Inspection reflects a snapshot of the life of a school, and the strength of any school is in the staff who serve the children and community in which it is based. While there are many strengths, we are aware of the areas for improvement highlighted in the report, and it is important to note that these were already identified in our development plans"

 

Overall, Oldcastle Primary School has been recognised for having a clear vision for the education and well-being of its pupils and implements this well.  The strong team ethos creates a clear sense of belonging in the school.

 

The school will work to address the recommendations outlined in the Estyn report, focusing on continuous improvement and maintaining the high standards that have been recognised. 

 

Estyn Reports | Oldcastle Primary School