Vale of Glamorgan Immersion Provision Praised Following Estyn Inspection
The Vale of Glamorgan Council has welcomed the positive findings of a recent Estyn inspection of its Welsh language immersion provision, which highlights the strength of leadership, the supportive learning environment, and the positive progress pupils make in developing their Welsh language skills.
The report highlights the strong collaboration between leaders, staff, families and partner schools in promoting both Welsh language learning and pupil well-being.
The Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Welsh language immersion provision supports pupils from across the county to develop confidence and fluency in Welsh, helping more learners continue their education through the medium of Welsh.
The majority of the provision is delivered at Ysgol Gymraeg Gwaun y Nant in Barry for primary-aged pupils, with additional support provided for secondary learners through a partnership with the Cardiff Immersion Unit.
Since 2023, the Council has also introduced a transition support service for pupils moving from Welsh-medium primary to secondary education, helping to strengthen progression into Welsh-medium learning at Key Stage 3.
Inspectors also highlighted the high quality of teaching within the provision, describing lessons as “purposeful and engaging”. Staff were commended for their high expectations and for using a range of effective strategies to support Welsh language development.
Strong partnership working with schools and external agencies was also identified as a key strength, helping many pupils continue their education through the medium of Welsh as they transition to secondary school.
Inspectors noted: “Leaders have worked diligently and proactively to establish a strong and purposeful network of partnerships that enhance the quality and impact of the Welsh immersion provision. They collaborate closely with a wide range of partners, including the educational psychology service, transition/progression teacher, admissions team, and staff from partner schools, such as ALN coordinators, to ensure a coherent and well coordinated approach.
“These partnerships are highly effective in supporting pupils’ transition into and through the immersion provision. Information is shared systematically at an early stage, enabling staff to understand pupils’ needs thoroughly and tailor support appropriately. This proactive approach ensures that most pupils settle quickly, develop confidence and engage positively with their learning.”
They added: “Close collaboration with external agencies also ensures that vulnerable pupils receive timely and effective support, particularly in relation to their well-being and emotional needs. Partnership working extends beyond the formal programme. For example, the provision of resources such as the ‘Pecyn Prysur’ supports families to reinforce language patterns during school holidays, strengthening the link between home and school.
“As a result of this cohesive and purposeful partnership working, most pupils make strong progress in their Welsh language skills. Nearly all develop positive attitudes towards learning Welsh and transition smoothly between educational phases, building successfully on their prior experiences."
Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh Language at the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: “We are delighted that Estyn has recognised the strength of our Welsh language immersion provision and the dedication of our staff in supporting learners and their families.
“This report reflects the caring and inclusive environment that has been created for pupils, where they are encouraged to build confidence, develop their Welsh language skills and feel a genuine sense of belonging.
“It is particularly encouraging to see the positive impact the provision is having in supporting more young people to continue their education through the medium of Welsh. The Vale of Glamorgan is one of the few areas of Wales where there has been an increase in the number of Welsh-speakers and we will continue to build on these strong foundations as we expand opportunities for learners to use and enjoy the Welsh language in the future.”
Elizabeth Jones, Director of Learning and Skills at the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: “The feedback in this report is a testament to the commitment, professionalism and passion of the staff working across our immersion provision and partner schools. In particular, I would like to thank Ysgol Gymraeg Gwaun y Nant and the Cardiff Immersion Unit, for their continued support in helping learners build confidence and thrive through the medium of Welsh.
“Estyn’s recognition of the high-quality teaching, strong partnership working and effective support for pupils’ well-being demonstrates the positive difference this collaborative approach is making to learners and their families. The close working relationships between the Council, schools and wider partners are central to the success of the provision and to supporting learners at every stage of their Welsh-medium education journey."