Provision for pupils receiving education other than at school needs better co-ordination
Provision for pupils at risk of exclusion or disengagement is most effective where local authorities, schools and pupil referral units (PRUs) work together to meet the needs of these pupils so they remain in full-time education. Read more >
The key to improving attendance in primary schools lies in a multi-strategy approach
Primary schools that maintain or improve pupils’ attendance pay consistent attention to it and use a variety of strategies rather than just one particular approach. In a report published today, Estyn highlights the various strategies employed by schools that have successfully tackled poor attendance. Read more >
Schools need to develop the leadership skills of staff at all levels
In successful schools, staff at all levels show strong leadership behaviours. These schools develop the leadership skills of all their staff, from classroom practitioners to senior leaders. A strong learning ethos, leadership development and succession planning are integral parts of the professional development culture in these schools. Read more >
Estyn welcomes new Chief Inspector
Meilyr Rowlands has taken up the role of Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales. Read more >
More consistency needed in managing learner complaints in further education institutions
Complaints procedures in further education institutions are generally clearly documented and comprehensive, although there is too much inconsistency between institutions in how complaints are managed. Differences also exist between institutions in the way in which they define what constitutes a complaint and in the extent to which they provide information to learners about how to make a complaint. In the survey Estyn did not find any institution with a quality assurance system to ensure that complaints are handled to a consistent standard across the institution. Read more >
Chief Inspector bids farewell
As Ann Keane prepares to leave Estyn after over 5 years as Chief Inspector and 31 years at the inspectorate, she would like to express her thanks. Read more >
Inspectors highlight primary schools’ strengths in the creative arts
Estyn has highlighted a number of primary schools across Wales that are leading the way in the creative arts and whose approaches should be shared and applied more widely. Read more >
Nursery settings need stronger support for teaching and learning
Early years advisory teachers can make a significant impact on the standards children achieve, but they do not spend enough time modelling good teaching during their visits to settings, according to an Estyn report published today. Inspectors found that a majority of advisory teachers provide more support for management and administration than they do for teaching and learning. Read more >
Good practice identified in mathematics, but challenges remain for secondary schools
Pupils make good progress in their mathematical reasoning when they are involved in problem solving, according to an Estyn report published today. Pupils involved in regular problem solving activities are able to understand real-life problems better and choose appropriate ways to tackle increasingly complex mathematical problems. Read more >
Appointment of next Chief Inspector announced
We are very pleased to announce that Meilyr Rowlands HMI will be the next Chief Inspector of Estyn. He will be appointed Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales on June 1st 2015. Read more >