Pupils in Neath Port Talbot have earned further recognition for their achievements.
This year’s Annual Pupil Performance report to Members highlights areas of significant improvement and success on a national as well as local level during the 2009/10 academic year.
Performance data from 2008 onwards shows a general pattern of improvement within the primary school sector and a consistent pattern of good and excellent performance within the secondary sector.
In particular the report notes that pupil attainment at Key Stage 4 (14-16 year olds) continues to be the best in Wales with an attainment level 6% above the expected for the three key performance indicators.
Pupils’ performance at Key Stage 2 (7-11years) and Key Stage 3 (11-14 years) increased to their highest levels.
NPT schools continue to excel at inspections and secure outstanding outcomes. They are also ensuring that fewer pupils leave school without a recognised qualification.
This success has been achieved against a context of an increasing number of pupils claiming free school meals, 23% compared to a national average of 19%-the fourth highest in Wales.
The other area of significant and sustained success is the 30% fall in permanent exclusions from school, whilst fixed-term exclusions fell by 10%.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Ali Thomas said: “This is very encouraging. I’m extremely proud of the performance of our pupils and the support they receive from staff in our schools.”
Particular attention will be given to developing outcomes at Key Stage 1 where pupils’ performance has decreased.
Karl Napieralla, Director of Education and Lifelong Learning said: “Whereas recognising the successes of our schools and pupils is important, we must not forget that there is still a lot of work to be done if we are to secure further year on year improvements.”
