Ysgol Ffordd Dyffryn

Overview

Ysgol Ffordd Dyffryn is described as a school that “cares passionately about the wellbeing of all pupils,” with an “inclusive nature” that “permeates all aspects of its work.” The report highlights “extremely strong leadership” and an “exceptionally caring and inclusive atmosphere” where pupils feel “valued, safe and listened to.” Most pupils make “good progress from their starting points” and achieve “good standards” in their learning.

Strengths

• “Exemplary” behaviour and an “exceptionally caring and inclusive atmosphere” that supports personal and emotional needs very well.
• “Extremely strong leadership” with a “clear and robust vision” that places pupil wellbeing and inclusion at the heart of the school’s work.
• Pupils are “confident, independent learners” who show a “high level of interest and engagement” in their work.
• “Highly effective systems for tracking and monitoring pupils’ progress,” ensuring timely interventions for all groups, including those with additional learning needs.
• “Very strong relationships with parents,” supported by detailed communication and practical support opportunities.

Areas to improve

• Improve opportunities for pupils to use their numeracy skills across the curriculum, as standards in other subjects are not always as high as in mathematics lessons.
• Ensure that all teachers use effective assessment for learning strategies consistently well to help pupils improve their work, particularly outside of literacy tasks.

Safeguarding

The report states that the school’s arrangements for safeguarding pupils “meet requirements and give no cause for concern.”