One of Powys' newest primary schools has received a glowing Estyn report, which described it as a school filled with “happiness, satisfaction and complete enjoyment”.

Ysgol Cwm Banwy, located in Llangadfan, near Welshpool, has received the results of an Estyn report from an inspection carried out during the lead-up to the Urdd Eisteddfod in May 2024.

The Welsh medium school opened in September 2020, but due to the Covid-19 pandemic was not able to hold an official opening until July 2022.

Headteacher Betsan Llwyd said: “I am pleased and more so proud that the inspection team recognised what a great school we have.  We are like one big happy family, all working together to offer the best possible opportunities for all of our pupils.

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“I am so lucky to be supported by an amazing team that strives diligently to ensure that we offer learning experiences that are exciting and purposeful. My governors are extremely supportive and they understand Ysgol Cwm Banwy’s background and the school’s purpose in the community. We are singing from the same hymn sheet.”

“The pupils enjoy their learning experiences, and if they are happy; then they learn. The classrooms, indoor and outdoor, are always filled with energetic children and members of staff, where the activities spark their imagination that helps them make the best possible progress. We do have a lot of fun.”

This ethos of combining enjoyment with education was reflected in the report’s overview, which said: “Pupils’ happiness, satisfaction and complete enjoyment in their learning are impressive features of the ethos and provision of Ysgol Cwm Banwy, which permeates every aspect of the school’s work.

(Image: Phil Blagg)

However, it remained positive about the staff and pupils of the school, adding: “Staff establish a supportive and productive working relationship with pupils and the learning areas are lively spaces that are full of curiosity.

“Across the school, teaching is strong, and teachers use a good range of effective teaching methods that promote pupils’ motivation and progress.

“The headteacher is a passionate and firm leader who aspires for the best possible learning experiences and well-being for all pupils. The headteacher is supported by a dedicated and effective team of staff who strive diligently to ensure that pupils enjoy their learning experiences and make the best possible progress.”

The report included some areas for the school to improve on, noting: “Teachers do not provide regular enough opportunities for pupils to make independent choices about how to complete tasks and present their work.”

(Image: NQ)