A recent positive Estyn inspection of Pembrokeshire’s Ysgol Casmael and Ysgol Llanychllwydog has highlighted the happy and inclusive community and caring learning environment of the school federation.

Estyn’s published reports highlight the excellent behaviour of almost all pupils at the Welsh language primary schools, linking it to the strong sense of belonging embedded by the headteacher.

It adds: “Staff provide stimulating sessions which inspire pupils to commit themselves enthusiastically to their learning. They use a wide range of effective teaching methods, plan engaging and meaningful sessions, and adapt activities suitably to meet the needs of almost all pupils.”

A spotlight focus on reading is included in Estyn’s reporting and shows that purposeful professional development on reading interventions and strategies has resulted in a strong culture of reading across the schools, and almost all pupils make excellent progress in their reading skills.

Estyn adds: “The headteacher and her team work together effectively across the federation to create a happy and inclusive community, by placing local identity and heritage at the heart of pupils' experiences.

“The headteacher knows the needs of pupils, staff and the communities exceptionally well. The federation’s schools have successful links with the local community to offer the pupils valuable experiences.”

Headteacher Amanda Lawrence said: "Estyn's report is a reflection of the hugely significant role that both of my schools play in their local community.

“The success of each pupil is down to the strong sense of belonging fostered by the staff, the parents, the governors and the community as a whole. It really does take a village to raise a child!"