Inspectors praise North Cardiff Welsh-medium school

Inspectors have highlighted the friendly and inclusive atmosphere at Ysgol Gymraeg Melin Gruffydd, a Welsh-medium primary school in Whitchurch, in a new report.

Estyn, the Education Inspectorate for Wales has released its latest inspection report on the school, highlighting the pride that pupils, staff, and parents take in the school's friendly and inclusive atmosphere and noting the successful, respectful and well-organised learning environment.

Key strengths include pupils' happy and friendly nature, their thoughtful interactions, and their natural use of the Welsh language. Pupils show a keen interest in their local heritage and take pride in the school's achievements, particularly in music competitions at both local and national levels.

The report commends the school's creative, broad, and balanced curriculum, which offers stimulating learning experiences tailored to the local context and Estyn praises the leadership of the headteacher, appointed in January 2023, for fostering a caring and supportive environment that promotes a strong sense of teamwork.

Headteacher Gwyndaf Jones said: "The Estyn report is testament to the continuous commitment and hard work of our whole school community. We are extremely proud of our excellent pupil behavior, inclusive nature and strong Welsh ethos."

A positive report, Estyn has made two key recommendations which will be addressed in the school action plan:

• Share effective teaching practices across the school to support pupils in developing their independent learning skills.

• Ensure that self-evaluation processes focus purposefully on the effect of provision on pupils' progress.

  
  

Cardiff's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "It was positive to read that under the visionary leadership of the enthusiastic headteacher, the school continues to provide a well-rounded education that champions pupils' well-being and achievements, especially in the arts. Congratulations to all at the school for this positive report."

At the time of inspection, Ysgol Gymraeg Melin Gruffydd had 469 pupils on roll. 52.9% of statutory school age pupils speak Welsh at home and the percentage of pupils eligible for free school meals stands at 5.3%. 2.0% of pupils have been identified as having additional learning needs.