A primary school described as a "caring and welcoming community that fosters a sense of belonging" has been hailed by inspectors.

Llanidloes Primary School, a 280-pupil school, has been celebrating after Estyn revealed its findings following a visit from inspectors in February.

Elen Chennetier, headteacher, said: “I am thrilled that the inspection has highlighted the ‘family feel’ of our large school where pupils feel a real sense of belonging.

"The hard work of our dedicated staff team has been truly recognised, as has the enthusiasm for learning in our pupils".

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Estyn recommended that the school improves pupils’ English writing skills and provide more purposeful opportunities for pupils to improve their work in response to feedback. The school will draw up an action plan to address the recommendations from the inspection.

The report said: "The headteacher provides effective leadership and is well supported by staff who work together successfully as a team. Nearly all pupils behave well. They show positive attitudes to learning and are proud of their school. Where appropriate, they benefit from additional support that helps prepare them for learning, for example by accessing the school’s Well-being Centre.

"Most pupils make sound progress in developing their skills during their time in school. They develop strong oracy skills in English from an early age and build their reading skills well as they progress through the school.

"Many develop suitable writing skills. However, overall, the accuracy of pupils’ writing is too variable, and older pupils do not receive enough opportunities to write at length.

"Nearly all pupils develop their Welsh listening skills very well, and become increasingly confident speakers, using a suitable variety of familiar Welsh language patterns. Most pupils develop their number skills well and, by the end of Year 6, most apply a good range of digital skills to their work across the curriculum.

County Times: Pupils celebrating the Welsh language in 2021.Pupils celebrating the Welsh language in 2021.

“Teachers provide pupils with a wealth of opportunities to participate in expressive arts in lessons and via extra-curricular activities. As a result, most pupils develop their artistic and creative skills very well. Teachers deliver interesting and engaging lessons.

"They place a special emphasis on activities inspired by the local community or Welsh culture, such as Welsh myths and legends.

"Staff provide suitable support for pupils during lessons. They give valuable verbal feedback to pupils as they engage with activities in class, although teachers’ written feedback is less effective.

“The school is federated with Llanidloes High School. This means that the schools share one governing body and work closely on a few other aspects. For example, secondary aged pupils support their primary peers as Welsh ‘reading buddies’."

Chair of Governors, Margot Jones, said: “We are delighted that the Estyn report has recognised the excellent work that goes on in our school, both from a teaching and learning perspective and in a caring and supportive atmosphere.

"We recognise the hard work and passion displayed by our headteacher and staff and are very proud of their achievements."