More needs to be done to help disabled and Black and Minority Ethnic learners into apprenticeships
Disabled learners and those from black and minority ethnic groups (BME) often face many barriers to accessing apprenticeships, but a number of work-based learning providers, employers and external agencies have put in place initiatives to help overcome these obstacles. Read more >
Colleges need to use observation of teaching and learning more effectively to improve learners’ standards
Lesson observation works best in colleges that have a clear vision and strategy for the delivery of teaching and learning to a consistently high quality, as well as having a strong culture of self-evaluation and self-improvement. Observation helps to share effective practice among staff and with other colleges, develop innovative ways of teaching, and is a means to evaluate the quality of learning. Read more >
Consultation on how Estyn inspects
Estyn seeks views on how it inspects education and training in Wales Read more >
Schools working together should focus on pupil outcomes
Nearly all schools are involved in some form of partnership with other schools, but there is not enough evaluation of the impact on pupils of this joint work, according to an Estyn report published today. Read more >
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 >