Powys primary school celebrates after being removed from Estyn’s schools requiring significant improvement

St. Mary's Catholic Primary School in Newtown has been removed from Estyn's list of schools requiring significant improvement following a positive monitoring visit, recognising the substantial progress made since its core inspection.

In its monitoring report, Estyn concluded that the school has made sufficient progress against all four recommendations from its previous inspection and will no longer be subject to further monitoring visits.

Inspectors highlighted significant improvements in leadership, teaching and learning, attendance, curriculum development and the quality of feedback provided to pupils. They noted that school leaders have established a clear focus on improvement, creating a calm and purposeful learning environment where pupils are increasingly motivated, independent and able to achieve their potential.

The report also recognised notable improvements in attendance and punctuality, with whole-school attendance increasing and persistent absenteeism falling. Inspectors praised the school's engaging curriculum, stronger writing provision and productive learning environments, both indoors and outdoors.

While recognising the significant progress made, Estyn noted that there remain opportunities for the school to continue its improvement journey, including further developing pupils' oracy skills and building on the positive changes already embedded across the school.

Councillor James Gibson-Watt, Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: "This is a fantastic achievement for everyone connected with St. Mary's Catholic Primary School. To be removed from the significant improvement category reflects the hard work, dedication and commitment shown by school leaders, staff, governors, pupils and families over the past two years.

"The report demonstrates the positive impact of strong leadership and a shared determination to provide the best possible education for local children. While it acknowledges there is always more to do, it is clear that the school has made substantial and sustainable improvements, and everyone involved should be extremely proud of this outcome."

Sarah Ruggeri, Headteacher of St. Mary's Catholic Primary School, said: "We are delighted that Estyn has recognised the progress our school has made. This outcome is the result of a tremendous team effort and the unwavering commitment of our staff, governors, pupils, parents and wider school community.

"The report reflects the positive changes we have introduced to strengthen teaching and learning, improve attendance and provide an engaging curriculum that inspires our pupils to succeed. We remain ambitious for our school and will continue to build on this progress to ensure every child can thrive."

Chair of Governors, Vicky Morris, at St. Mary's Catholic Primary School said: "Governors are extremely pleased with this positive outcome. The report recognises the considerable progress that has been made and the strong partnership working that has supported the school's improvement journey.

"We would like to thank the headteacher, staff, pupils, parents and the wider school community for their continued support. We look forward to working together to build on these successes and continue improving outcomes for all our learners."