In its Annual Report on Pupil Performance (2008-2009), Neath Port Talbot schools report another successful year in attainment and achievement for pupils.
Schools have delivered improvements against all key performance indicators at all key stages; including a considerable reduction in the number of pupils leaving school without a recognised qualification, an ongoing reduction in the number of permanent exclusions and continued improvement of performance at Key Stages 1 and 2.
While the percentage of pupils entitled to free school meals in Neath Port Talbot schools has risen, the gap in attainment between free-school-meal pupils and non-free-school-meal is smaller in NPT than any other authority.
At Key Stage 4 Neath Port Talbot pupils are performing at 9% points above their expected attainment, and 2% at Key Stage 3. Pupil performance continues to show improvements and schools working in partnership with the local authority have plans in place to tackle any identified under performances.
Once again Estyn showcased Neath Port Talbot performance, Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales said, “A key factor in the success of Neath Port Talbot has been the high quality of leadership from the local authority and from individual schools. The local authority and schools have worked together over a number of years to develop a culture that promotes high standards of achievement, especially for disadvantaged learners.”
NPT Council Leader, Cllr. Ali Thomas, said, “This is a very encouraging report. I’m extremely proud of the way our schools are supporting disadvantaged learners. We are aware that there are issues that need to be addressed however the overall key message of the report is that prospects for all pupils in Neath Port Talbot schools are extremely positive.”
NPT Director of Education, Leisure and Lifelong Learning, Karl Napieralla, said, “Pupils in Neath Port Talbot schools have again excelled. As an aspirational authority we will continue to support and challenge our schools to continually improve. Much can be gained by developing a co-ordinated approach to literacy including investment in family learning and the promotion of high quality pre-school engagement.”
