**Cardiff Primary School Emerges from Special Measures After Significant Improvements**
Pentrebane Primary School, situated in Cardiff, has made a remarkable turnaround after being previously placed under Estyn’s strictest supervision. The primary school, which was subjected to special measures due to concerns over leadership, teaching quality, and general pupil attainment, has now earned its release from this status following a recent inspection report.
Back in 2023, Estyn, the education watchdog, identified a string of shortcomings at Pentrebane Primary. The primary concerns revolved around the standard of teaching, insufficient safeguarding of pupils, and general leadership issues. These challenges prompted special measures, meaning the school was placed under close scrutiny and required to make urgent improvements. In response to the inspection, the school undertook a thorough reorganisation, which included the appointment of a new headteacher, Elizabeth Prescott, and a restructured governing body led by Doug Corp. Together, school leaders swiftly put an action plan in place to address the shortcomings outlined by inspectors.
The recent Estyn report acknowledges noticeable positive changes since these interventions were implemented. Inspectors highlighted that the school had developed clear procedures to make entry and exit from the site safer for pupils. Gates are now closely supervised by senior leaders at the beginning of each day, and staff ensure that children return to their parents in a calm and orderly fashion. Enhanced site security, including the regular locking of doors and installation of temporary fencing, has also been praised. While welcoming these temporary solutions, Estyn noted that permanent arrangements for safeguarding and site security still need to be introduced to provide ongoing reassurance for families and staff.
The improvements have not only been confined to safeguarding, however. The school has refined its approach to teaching, with Estyn commending teachers for their focused lesson planning and the higher levels of challenge offered to pupils. Inspectors found that students, including those who require extra assistance, are now making considerable progress in core areas, particularly in writing. The determination of the teaching staff to raise standards has been a critical factor in the school’s recovery.
Another significant achievement cited in the Estyn report is improved attendance. Pentrebane Primary has also developed effective support measures specifically tailored for pupils eligible for free school meals, which inspectors described as particularly impactful. These targeted efforts have contributed to an inclusive and supportive learning environment, a development welcomed by stakeholders.
Doug Corp, Chair of Governors, marked the rapid improvement as “a remarkable turnaround”, stating that leaving special measures within just two years highlights the “determination and resilience of the entire school community.” His comments underscore the collective nature of the school’s recovery, involving staff, governors, pupils, and parents.
Headteacher Elizabeth Prescott shared her gratitude, expressing thanks to the collective efforts from staff, the supporting local authority, and the wider community. “Our journey out of special measures could not have been achieved without the backing of all those involved,” she remarked. Prescott’s leadership has been widely credited with steering the school towards these positive outcomes.
The news has resonated beyond the immediate school gates, with local representatives voicing their support. Mark Drakeford, former First Minister and the current MS for Cardiff West, congratulated the school community, noting the news would be “a huge encouragement as the school looks forward to a successful future.”
Pentrebane’s journey offers hope and encouragement for other schools facing similar challenges. It also underscores the impact of collective action and effective leadership in transforming educational outcomes. The Estyn report, while acknowledging ongoing work to secure long-term improvements, marks a pivotal moment for the school, which now leaves special measures with renewed confidence and a brighter outlook.