During their time at the school, many pupils achieve appropriate standards in most aspects of learning. However, more able and talented pupils often underachieve. Many pupils apply their literacy, numeracy and information and communication technology (ICT) skills well across the curriculum. Pupils’ Welsh skills, however, are under developed. Most pupils have a positive attitude to learning and show great pride in their school and in their work. There is a very caring and inclusive ethos, which emphasises the wellbeing of pupils. Nearly all pupils have good manners and show respect for one another and for adults. Teachers and learning support assistants work together well and in a majority of classes, teachers foster pupil’s independent learning skills well. However, across the school a minority of pupils do not develop these skills well enough. A majority of teaching is strong, but the quality of teaching varies too much from class to class. The school provides effective support for pupils with additional learning needs and these pupils make good progress over time. The headteacher has a clear vision for the school, values every pupil as an individual and provides suitable direction for the staff. However, there are no other senior leaders within the school to share leadership roles and responsibilities. The governing body is proactive and supports the school successfully. Inspection area Judgement Standards Adequate and needs improvement Wellbeing and attitudes to learning Good Teaching and learning experiences Adequate and needs improvement Care, support and guidance Good Leadership and management Adequate and needs improvement 2 A report on St Teilo's V.R.C. School October 2018 Recommendations R1 Ensure that the school has formally defined arrangements to cover leadership responsibilities in the absence of the headteacher R2 Improve the quality of monitoring procedures in order to focus more clearly on pupil outcomes R3 Provide more opportunities for pupils to develop as independent learners R4 Improve pupils’ Welsh language skills R5 Increase the opportunities for more able and talented pupils to achieve their full potential What happens next The school will draw up an action plan, which shows how it is going to address the recommendations. Estyn will review the school’s progress