INSPECTORS have praised staff at a Penarth primary school, for providing a “nurturing and vibrant place for pupils, staff and visitors”. 

Sully Primary School is an English-language primary school with 413 pupils, in Burnham Avenue.

The school was described as having a “happy and inclusive atmosphere” by inspectors, who said “almost all pupils feel safe, secure, and listened to”. 

Estyn reported how “the engagement of pupils in their learning, and their excellent behaviour, are notable strengths of the school”. 

The majority of pupils “show perseverance and resilience when completing tasks” and “demonstrate confidence in the way they interact with each other, and with familiar and unfamiliar adults”. 

Looking at specific areas of study, Estyn found “nearly all pupils understand the need for a balanced diet” and demonstrate “an extensive understanding of other cultures and religions”.

Learners are also aware of “the need for a worldwide approach to saving the environment”, the inspectors added.

Headteacher, Andrea Waddington, “provides strong leadership and generally knows the school well”. 

She was praised for “providing a calm working environment where pupils feel listened to and can ask questions if they need help with their learning”. 

Mrs Waddington also encourages “the partnership between the school and parents”, which puts “the school very much at the heart of the community”, the Estyn team said.

Teachers were also praised for their efforts in the recent Estyn report, particularly for using “resources from within the local area effectively”, such as a reception-class visit to Sully Beach, where pupils "explore what they might see, hear and smell at the seaside”. 

However, Estyn noted how “teachers do not always provide sufficient challenge” and said "over-directed" activities "often limit opportunities for pupils to make choices about their learning". 

Sully Primary School’s efforts to promote the Welsh language were also said to be “effective”.

Following the inspection, Estyn has encouraged the school to "strengthen teaching to ensure that it meets the needs of all individual learners", and "develop pupil independence, including when using the outdoors".