Most of the summer term was dominated by our Estyn inspection. This was a time in which the Netherwood staff had to control their nerves and rise to the many challenges thrown at them by the Estyn team. We felt honoured being inspected by an Estyn team, as opposed to being inspected by a secondary body being brought in by Estyn. With this level of inspection, we knew that the standards would be exceptionally high and therefore more difficult to achieve. Well developed teaching styles were not hampered by nerves and excellent results were gained across the board, especially within the Key Stage 2 section of the school. The inspectors commented that, in general, the standards of achievement exceed Welsh Assembly requirements. Attainment at GCSE level is excellent with 88 per cent gaining A*-C grades and 42 per cent actually being at A* and A standard. Three very notable subjects where success has been consistently achieved up to the summer of 2006 are English, science and history. The development of Year Six as a buffer year between junior and secondary education is a particularly strong feature. In general most children have well-developed skills in listening, speech, vocabulary and make progress in reading. Numeracy skills are also strong at various stages of the school. The Teacher Panel meetings, which are original to Netherwood, provide us with a very effective means of reporting to individuals and improving their standards. The curriculum is broad and prepares our pupils well for their future lives. They are happy and feel secure on the premises. Staff and pupils work well together. New pupils are always made to feel welcome and the small number of pupils in our classes provides the school with more individual teaching. The introduction of the groups of Spanish children had been achieved quite harmoniously and the scheme enhanced both the social atmosphere and learning environment provided at the school. There are effective systems to promote good behaviour, tolerance and concern for others. Pupils feel listened to. Personal and social skills are well developed. The relationship between different races is very healthy. There is a clear statement of aims and ethos. The family environment is very noticeable. The school accommodation continues to improve. The newsletters and yearbook are a valued means of communication. The Self Evaluation Report, produced by the school, is both open and honest. The school is currently teacher-rich, with a good mix of expertise. The induction of new staff is commendable. School budgets are well-managed. The adequate resources are well used. Netherwood represents value for money. We have just heard that Gavin Nelson-Edwards, a pupil in our first-ever Sixth Form group, has gained a First Class Honours Degree in geography and earth science. Another ex-pupil and ex-guest of honour, Vicki James, this year became the youngest female in Britain ever to conquer Mount Everest. Another ex-pupil and ex-guest of honour, Jonathan Cope, previously famed as a ballet dancer, began an illustrious career as a television presenter in a programme which celebrated the retirement of the ballerina Darcy Bussell. We look forward to seeing further presentations. Likewise, we are always keen to hear news of the successes gained by all of our current and ex-pupils. Despite the involvement of the school in our Estyn team inspection, there was still much going on. We leave you with a selection of photos that help us to recap on the term.