A FLINTSHIRE primary school has been praised for the "exceptional care and support" given to its pupils.

An Estyn inspection took place at Ysgol Bryn Gwalia in Mold in early December 2023, noting it is a "nurturing, inclusive school".

The inspectors' report states: "Relationships across the school are strong and parents, pupils and staff feel valued. Provision for pupils' wellbeing is a strength of the school.

"The school offers a range of beneficial initiatives to help pupils to improve their self-esteem and recognise their emotions.

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"For example, the school's nurture class, Dosbarth Derwen, supports small groups of pupils to regulate their behaviour and to make effective progress in their learning.

"Approaches to teaching match pupils' developmental needs well throughout their time at school.

"Provision for pupils with additional learning needs (ALN) is strong. This includes carefully tailored support from the school's teaching assistant."

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Inspectors also noted that "teachers support pupils to develop their sense of 'cynefin' (belonging) and their understanding of life as modern-day citizens in Wales effectively".

It was highlighted that leaders and staff know their 139 pupils well, with headteacher Lorraine Dalton being noted as providing "highly effective, compassionate leadership, which promotes the wellbeing of all successfully".

The report added: "The headteacher is a compassionate, caring leader who works successfully alongside the governing body and staff to drive school improvement."

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Mrs Dalton said: "I am absolutely delighted Estyn got to see Ysgol Bryn Gwalia the way I do every day, recognising the hardworking children and how our nurturing ethos underpins our successes.

"Our children's wellbeing lies at the heart of all we do at Bryn Gwalia. It is lovely to see the staff's hard work highlighted, as they really do go the extra mile every single day.

"As a result, the learners make strong progress throughout their time at Bryn Gwalia. They loved every minute of discussing their work with the inspectors as well as talking about their leadership roles and work within the community. Bryn Gwalia is a school of the community, for the community."

The report featured the following recommendation, that the school "refine provision to ensure that there are consistent opportunities for pupils to apply their literacy, numeracy and digital skills in relevant, real-life situations".