A Wrexham high school is celebrating receiving a glowing report, which has seen it removed from special measures.
Ysgol Bryn Alyn's hard work and determination has paid off, following high praise by Estyn - the education and training inspectorate for Wales - in a recent inspection for the significant improvements the school has made.
The school has successfully addressed all of Estyn's recommendations and made huge strides in ensuring excellent educational experiences for all of its students.
Estyn has recognised the positive culture and quality provision within the school and consequently Ysgol Bryn Alyn has been removed from the list of schools requiring special measures, which it was put under in 2018.
The Gwersyllt school has worked incredibly hard over the past few years to ensure the very best provision for its students.
It was noted that Ysgol Bryn Alyn had worked tirelessly during the pandemic to support every child.
The report states: "Despite the lengthy periods out of school because of lockdowns and the significant impact on pupils' skills as a result, the school has been successful in supporting pupils to improve their skills."
Estyn were particularly impressed with the calm and purposeful atmosphere at Ysgol Bryn Alyn, adding: "Pupils' positive attitude towards their learning is a notable feature.
"Pupils listen respectfully to each other and adults, and follow instructions promptly. When speaking to adults outside of lessons, pupils converse confidently and are sociable, polite and welcoming."
The school has focused on developing its teaching and learning through sharing good practice and professional development opportunities.
The report continues: "They have developed a more reflective culture which has contributed suitably to improving the pace of learning and developing an appropriate level of challenge in the majority of lessons."
This learning culture is fostered throughout the school to encourage all to continually seek to do their very best, with the report noting: "In many lessons, teachers foster strong working relationships with pupils and are good language models.
"They have sound subject knowledge and use this to provide helpful verbal feedback to pupils."
Leadership of the school is seen to be a real strength, with headteacher Adele Slinn's efforts leading the way.
The report states: "The headteacher has focused on strengthening leadership and fostering a sense of teamwork across the school.
"Leaders have a clear understanding of the main priorities of the school."
A thrilled Mrs Slinn said: "This report confirms all of the fantastic work that takes place here at Ysgol Bryn Alyn.
"Our staff work tirelessly to give our students the very best opportunities.
"We provide high quality teaching and learning experiences and have incredibly dedicated staff who support all of our students to achieve their very best.
"It is wonderful that all of our hard work has been recognised and we were delighted that the Estyn Inspectors saw how superb our school is.
"We will be continuing on our journey ensuring all of our students Dream, Reach and Achieve."
Cllr David Griffiths, chair of Governors added: "The school has worked incredibly hard to support all of its students and provides high quality educational experiences for all.
"The recognition from Estyn is very well deserved and shows what a wonderful school Ysgol Bryn Alyn is."
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