A SCHOOL in Cynwyd described as "happy and homely" is celebrating a positive Estyn report. 

Ysgol Bro Dyfrdwy, near Corwen, received a visit from Estyn inspectors in October 2023. The full report has now been published. 

The report noted that the school created a "caring, Welsh, inclusive and hard-working ethos where staff and pupils care for each other naturally."

It said: "Pupils enjoy their time at the school greatly. They are happy to attend, behave well and develop positive attitudes to learning.

"Most pupils show strong motivation, a curious interest in their learning and make sound progress from their starting points."

Inspectors praised teachers for providing "rich and stimulating learning experiences that engage the interest of most pupils."

Headteacher Bethan Fell was commended for providing "effective and supportive leadership which provides a clear direction for the school."

The report said: "The school has a strong Welsh ethos and an obvious feature is the provision of a range of valuable experiences with a clear emphasis on promoting pupils’ awareness of their locality and the history and traditions of Wales. Through this, pupils show pride in their heritage and a clear appreciation of the culture and history of the local area and beyond. 

"Mrs Fell receives strong support from the dedicated staff who work well together as a team and share responsibilities sensibly. They show a strong commitment to promoting continuous and sustainable improvements." 

Mrs Fell said: " I’m extremely proud of the wonderful and brilliant report we have received and grateful to all staff for their hard work, and for providing valuable learning experiences to ensure the success of all learners."

Inspectors noted that nearly all pupils feel "happy and safe" within the school's "supportive, inclusive and stimulating environment."

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The report said: "They are mature when welcoming visitors. Most show obvious pride in the school and appreciate the rich range of experiences that are provided for them. This is reflected in pupils’ enthusiasm towards their learning and the school’s high attendance rate."

It added: "Across the school, many pupils show an increasing ability to concentrate for extended periods and show motivation and curiosity in their learning.

"Most pupils develop a sound understanding of how to take care of their mental and emotional well-being. They develop the ability and confidence to discuss and share their feelings, which helps them understand and show empathy for others who are in distress."

There are 125 pupils on roll at Ysgol Bro Dyfrdwy.

Inspectors put forward two recommendations: To provide more opportunities for pupils to make decisions about how they organise and present their work and think for themselves about how they respond to learning tasks and to provide regular opportunities for pupils to apply their numeracy skills across the curriculum.