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Ysgol Y Berllan Deg praised by Estyn for its caring ethos and commitment to Welsh language education

11/6/ 2025


Ysgol Y Berllan Deg in Llanedeyrn has been praised in its latest inspection by Estyn with recognition given to the school's strong leadership, inclusive community and dedication to nurturing a positive Welsh-medium learning environment.

Inspectors found that at the heart of the school's success, is purposeful leadership and a dedicated staff team committed to creating a caring, inspiring, and respectful atmosphere. The headteacher and leadership team have set a clear strategic direction, fostering a happy and inclusive school community that values both mutual respect and Welsh identity.

The report notes that pupils demonstrate mature, respectful behaviour and a strong sense of community. The school's nurturing environment ensures all learners feel safe and supported, with most pupils making good progress throughout their time at the school. Pupils with additional learning needs are particularly well supported, benefitting from close collaboration between staff and external services.

Staff have been commended for providing engaging and creative learning experiences, including educational visits and performing arts projects and it has been noted that stimulating lessons that cater to a broad range of abilities are planned. These efforts result in pupils showing positive attitudes toward learning and pride in their school.

The school places a strong emphasis on promoting the Welsh language, both within the school and at home, through parent support programmes. Literacy and numeracy skills are also developed effectively through practical, real-life learning opportunities and governors are praised for their active involvement and for championing the benefits of Welsh-medium education within the wider community.

The report identifies areas for development which the school will address in its action plan. They include:

  • Strengthen strategic leadership and improve self-evaluation and planning in order to strengthen and ensure consistency in provision
  • Provide regular opportunities for pupils to take responsibility for their learning and develop them as independent learners
  • Ensure consistency in effective teaching practices across the school and raise staff's expectations to provide a consistent challenge for all pupils

Mari Phillips, Headteacher at the school said: "We are delighted that Estyn have recognised the warm and caring ethos of our school. We pride ourselves on nurturing all our children, many of whom do not speak Welsh when they first arrive through our doors. We have shown that through positive encouragement in an inspiring environment, all our children can become confident users of the Welsh language. Our pupils are well behaved and make good progress across the curriculum andwe are particularly pleased with their ability to use maths to solve real-life problems." 

Cardiff's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "Estyn's report reflects the dedication of staff, and the enthusiasm of pupils and clearly recognises the school's commitment to providing a high-quality Welsh-medium education that supports the development and well-being of every child.

"The school should feel proud of the nurturing, inclusive environment that has been established and can look forward to continuing to build on these successes and make improvements as recommended by Estyn."

At the time of inspection, Ysgol Y Berllan Deg had 388 pupils on roll, 5.7% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, 1.7% of pupils identify as having additional learning needs and 33.3% of pupils speak Welsh at home.