Inspection Reports
As a primary school in Wales, we are inspected by Estyn and the Church in Wales - Gwella Section 50 Inspection.
Estyn inspects quality and standards in education and training providers in Wales using the Common Inspection Framework. There is one framework for all schools, independent specialist colleges, pupil referral units and work-based learning providers. If you want more information about the inspection process, visit the Estyn website.
Gwella inspection focuses on the effect that the Christian character of the church school has on the learner.
ESTYN
Our most recent ESTYN inspection took place in February 2025, where both St. Pauls and Borderbrook were inspected as a federation of two schools, The Maelor Church Schools Federation. This inspection was carried out during the formal collaboration with Bronington VA Primary school , but that school was not included in this inspection.
Our Estyn Inspection Report is now live on the Estyn website and paper copies are available in school. We are very proud of the report and thank staff, Governors, pupils, parents and carers and the local community for their part in making our school the wonderful place it is.
Please use the link below to view our most recent ESTYN inspection report. This version is the simplified one for families for a quicker read:-
St Pauls VA Primary School Parents and Carers ESTYN Report
or if you wish to view the full report, please use the following link:-
St Pauls VA Primary School Estyn Report February 2025
Below is a summary of the highlights from the report:
The headteacher fosters a cohesive and inclusive learning environment, ensuring that all pupils feel valued. Through her calm and reflective leadership, she promotes equity and unity across the federation of schools. She supports leadership development by encouraging collaboration among senior leaders and staff, leading to a shared approach in teaching and assessment. Teachers engage in reflective self- evaluation, although staff involvement in monitoring remains an area for growth.
Pupils develop strong communication skills, expressing themselves confidently in discussions and listening attentively. The youngest pupils develop excellent phonics awareness, while older pupils read fluently and critically engage with texts. Teachers integrate many opportunities for pupils to write across the curriculum, with younger pupils developing foundational skills through play and older pupils using persuasive language effectively.
Teachers’ planning embeds mathematics into real-world contexts. Entrepreneurial activities teach pupils budgeting and decision-making. Digital literacy is a strength, with pupils working together effectively to develop strong skills. All pupils understand online safety. Rich learning experiences extend beyond the classroom through outdoor activities, creative arts, and cultural events.
The school has placed an emphasis on pupils’ Welsh language development with staff modelling its use and older pupils mentoring younger ones. Staff prioritise pupil well-being, fostering resilience, confidence, and positive relationships. Older pupils take on leadership roles, actively shaping their learning through research, presentations, and peer discussions.
Support for pupils with additional learning needs is well-structured and incorporates effective working with external agencies. Strong partnerships with parents ensure that families feel supported and involved. Governors play an active role, although their direct engagement in school monitoring is still evolving.
Gwella Section 50 Inspection
In November 2017, we welcomed the Church inspector into St Pauls School for two days to meet our children, staff, parents and governors, so that they could evaluate our effectiveness as a Church School. We are delighted with the report which classified the leadership and management of the school as 'excellent', and gave all other inspected parameters a 'good' . Click on the link below to access the full report.
St Pauls School Section 50 Report from 2017
When our new Gwella Church Inspection is published on their website, you will also find the report in the link below.
