Ysgol Garth Olwg

Overview

The report highlights that many pupils make "strong progress" in Welsh communication skills and develop "positive attitudes to learning," particularly in the earlier years. However, it notes that "strategic leadership... is not robust enough" in certain areas, and the curriculum for older pupils is "too limited." Attendance rates remain low, and a few older pupils display negative behaviour.

Strengths

• Pupils develop a "sound vocabulary and understanding" of Welsh, enabling them to express themselves clearly.
• There is a "wide variety of opportunities" for pupils to contribute to school life through clubs and forums, fostering social skills.
• The "quality of teaching across the school is good," positively affecting subject knowledge and literacy.
• Sixth-form pupils develop valuable personal skills by leading forums and supporting younger pupils.

Areas to improve

• Leaders must "sharpen self-evaluation" to better consider the effect of provision on pupils’ standards and progress.
• Strategic leadership needs strengthening, particularly regarding "numeracy and digital skills" and the well-being of older pupils.
• The curriculum in key stages 3 and 4 must be expanded to "meet the needs of all pupils" and improve engagement.

Safeguarding

The report states that "many pupils feel safe at school," although they note that the behaviour of some pupils during break times and lunchtimes causes them distress.