A proud moment for St Mark’s VA
St Mark's Church in Wales VA School is delighted to share the findings of its recent Estyn inspection, which recognises the school's caring ethos, strong leadership and commitment to helping every child succeed.
The report highlights that the school provides a "caring and inclusive environment where positive relationships are central to its work", recognising the strong partnerships between staff, pupils and families. Inspectors noted that staff know pupils and their families well and create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued.
Estyn praised the leadership team noting the strong relationships across the school community and a shared focus on meeting the needs of all pupils. Inspectors recognised the "strong vision for pupils to be the best they can be" and the clear direction that has been set for the school's future development.
Headteacher Sharon Gillespie said:
"It is wonderful to see the strengths of our school recognised in this report. At St Mark's, we place great importance on building strong relationships and creating a community where every child feels valued, supported and able to flourish. I would like to thank our pupils, staff, governors, families and church community for the part they play in making our school such a special place”.
The report also recognises the positive attitudes of pupils, noting that most pupils behave well, enjoy learning and work respectfully with staff and one another. Inspectors found that pupils demonstrate care, empathy and respect for others and that many older pupils collaborate successfully with their peers.
Estyn highlighted the quality of support provided for pupils' learning and wellbeing, particularly for those with additional learning needs. Inspectors found that teachers and support staff adapt learning effectively to meet a wide range of needs, helping pupils make secure progress towards their individual targets.
The report also celebrates pupils' achievements across the curriculum. Inspectors noted that many pupils make good progress in speaking, reading, mathematics, digital skills and Welsh. By Year 6, many pupils speak confidently, read fluently and can use technology effectively.
The school is particularly proud that it’s commitment to developing confident young Welsh speakers was also praised by Estyn. Inspectors recognised the purposeful use of Welsh throughout the school and highlighted the progress pupils make in developing their Welsh language skills, with many older pupils confidently using Welsh in conversation.
Sharon Gillespie, Headteacher added, “The report celebrates the progress we have made together and provides a helpful platform for our next steps. We are looking forward to building on these strengths as we continue to develop the very best opportunities for all of our pupils