Pencoedtre High School

Overview

Pencoedtre High School is described as a "caring school" where most teachers nurture positive relationships, yet it lacks "clear, strategic direction" from senior leaders. This leadership gap has resulted in insufficient impact on key areas including attendance, behaviour, teaching quality, and provision for pupils with additional learning needs. Consequently, the report states that "special measures are required" and Estyn will monitor progress termly.

Strengths

• Most teachers "nurture positive relationships with pupils," creating a welcoming environment.
• The leadership team "managed the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic well."
• The curriculum is "broad and balanced" and enhanced by "valuable extra-curricular activities."
• The school "works well with external agencies" to support pupil well-being.
• In a majority of lessons, teachers provide support enabling pupils to make "broadly suitable progress."

Areas to improve

• Senior leaders must improve "strategic leadership and accountability," including self-evaluation and improvement planning.
• The school needs to address "pupils’ attendance and behaviour," which are currently significant concerns.
• Leaders must improve the "quality of teaching and assessment" and the provision for pupils with additional learning needs.

Safeguarding

The report highlights a specific requirement to "address the issue regarding site security at the front entrance of the school."