Evenlode’s approach to self-evaluation praised by Estyn
Estyn has identified Evenlode Primary School as an example of best practice for its approach to self-evaluation.
Welsh inspectors for education and training recognised that a culture of reflection is embedded in many aspects of life at the Penarth school.
They also noted that recent changes have been central to the school’s superb performance in this area.
These have included amalgamation with the local nursery, fresh leadership, a new curriculum and updated assessment processes.
Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh Language, said: “This report is excellent news for Evenlode Primary, indicating it is one of the leading lights when it comes to self-evaluation.
“To be highlighted as a school exhibiting best practice is even more impressive given the significant changes that have taken place over the last couple of years.
“Estyn reported that the revamping of the school’s age range, leadership and approach has actually helped achieve these standards and that is fantastic to hear.
“I’d like to pass on my personal congratulations to Headteacher Ruth Foster and all the staff for the hard work that has led to this extremely positive feedback.”
The school has introduced various processes to help with self-evaluation.
After listening to requests for greater involvement, a Community Parents’ Forum was set up in the spring of 2023 to develop better communication and build stronger relationships.
Each year group is represented at half-termly meetings, where senior leaders and the Vice Chair of Governors meet to discuss aspects of the school’s work.
At meetings, parents can share opinions on these matters and help influence Evenlode’s future direction.
Staff also reflected personally and professionally on the school’s values during the process of it becoming actively anti-racist.
This resulted in a refined vision as Evenlode made changes to its humanities curriculum and the resources, including books, used to support learning.
The school was involved in two arts projects exploring themes of celebration, identity and belonging through dance and plans are in place to further develop this work by involving parents and governors.
Over a three-year period, the Head led on implementing a bespoke curriculum and new assessment processes which saw teaches and leaders meet twice a term to reflect on practice and outcomes.
Conclusions are then considered as part of school improvement reviews and adaptations made when necessary.
One of the school’s key priorities is to ensure pupils reflect thoughtfully on the world around them, enabling them to be ethically informed citizens.
Philosophical enquiry has been implemented as a whole school approach, allowing pupils to explore big ideas and design their own questions for learning.
Finally, Evenlode has shared its curriculum and anti-racism work with other schools and the Local Authority through cluster meetings, helping to further spread the positive effects of good practice.