Golden girls and boys at a Swansea Primary School have come in for praise by inspectors who singled out their positive attitudes to learning as well as their spiritual and moral development.
The latest report by Welsh inspections body Estyn on Pontybrenin Primary School says the school succeeds in creating a happy and supportive environment and has a strong emphasis on promoting the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils.
The children’s behaviour at the Gorseinon school was also highlighted in the report where they’re described as friendly and sociable. Pupils were also portrayed as well-motivated, eager to learn and able to relate to staff, visitors and each other.
A golden-leaved Praise Tree and a Golden Table in the dining hall are among the innovative new methods the school uses to foster good behaviour.
Recently-appointed Head Teacher Philip Williams said: “Every Friday the school meets for a Merit Session which celebrates good behaviour. Children who have behaved well or achieved highly are given a golden praise leaf to put on the Praise Tree.
“We try and foster a team ethos and a fair and caring community. Along with the praise tree we have a special Golden Table on Friday lunchtimes for children who have done well.
“We have also introduced something called Golden Time. This means that on Friday afternoons staff run an activity such as a creative club, outdoor sport or construction.”
In his report, inspector Edward Goronwy Morris said: “The quality of care, guidance and support provided for learners is good. Monitoring of behaviour, attendance, punctuality and performance is thorough and rigorous.”
In seven overall categories inspected, the school achieved five Grade 2s, (good features with no important shortcomings) and two Grade 3s ( where good features are said to outweigh shortcomings).
The report also drew attention to the good working relationships which exist throughout the school and the fact that the learners make good progress and achieve well. Performance of children’s work was consistently above Local Authority and Wales averages.
Head Teacher Philip Williams got top marks in the report. The report said: “The current head has in the short time since his appointment brought stability and a sense of direction to the school. He has a clear vision for the future of the school. He is well supported by the newly appointed deputy head and by all staff who are very dedicated and committed to the school and the learners in their care.”
David Huxtable, Chair of Governors at the School, said: “The governors are proud of the fact that all stakeholders including members of the teaching and non-teaching staff, parents, senior management team and children are working together to create an environment where all children are valued and treated equally.”
Cllr Mike Day, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, said: “This report demonstrates that Pontybrenin Primary School has a proactive approach to fostering good behaviour and positive attitudes to learning. Philip Williams, the staff and governors should be congratulated.”
