Children and young people are benefiting significantly from the 'Team Môn' ethos nurtured by education leaders to help deliver high quality services.
That was one of a number of positive key findings delivered by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales, Estyn, today (Friday 22 July), as its report on Anglesey council’s Learning Services was published.
This Estyn report is in stark contrast to the last one delivered in 2012 which found unsatisfactory education services.
Inspectors found a very different picture in 2022, with education recognised as ‘a high priority for the council’ and the effectiveness of its Learning Service contributing towards high quality education services.
The county council has worked closely with school communities to create a one-team ‘Team Môn’ ethos, where everyone’s contribution is valued, was highlighted as a strong feature which has contributed significantly to progress.
This has also been reflected on a corporate level, with various services - including children’s services and finance – providing guidance and support to help the Learning Service deliver positive outcomes.
The report also highlights the council’s steps to protect learning budgets as part of a clear vision in terms of improving the quality of education.
Education leaders, and elected members, are also praised for making difficult and timely decisions by changing and refining plans and priorities when required, including their response to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.
Council Leader, Councillor Llinos Medi, welcomed the report and thanked Estyn for recognising the clear improvements made by Anglesey’s Learning Service.
Councillor Medi said, “We’re naturally delighted with such a positive report, which highlights this Council’s efforts to maintain education services of the highest quality. We work very closely with our schools, as well as external partners, especially GwE (North Wales School Effectiveness and Improvement Service), and value their co-operation and contribution as part of our Team Môn ethos. Ensuring that we all work together to provide the best possible education and experiences for our children and young people is a key priority.”
“On a personal note, I’d particularly like to thank former councillor and education portfolio holder, Meirion Jones, for his commitment and contribution to the positive progress noted in this report.”
Education and Welsh Language portfolio holder, Councillor Ieuan Williams, added, “We have a clear vision for improving the quality of education on Anglesey; and have sought to protect education budgets in order to deliver this key aim. In our Learning Service, we have a great team, which works well with other council services, schools and governing bodies. This positive report from Estyn is a credit to their hard work and commitment to giving Anglesey pupils the best possible education and start in life.”
Anglesey Council’s maintains 45 mainstream schools, including 40 primary schools; five secondary schools and one special school.
Council Chief Executive, Dylan J Williams, said, “This latest report not only shows how far the Learning Service has come, but also reflects how much our council has developed and improved in recent years. As a council, we are committed to delivering excellence in education and seeing our children and young people flourish.”
“This report is warmly welcomed, but there is always room for improvement. Estyn has provided us with two important recommendations which will help us strengthen processes within our Learning Services further and develop our scrutiny arrangements. These recommendations are already being implemented and will ensure that the council continues on its improvement journey.”
The full Estyn inspection report can be found here: https://www.estyn.gov.wales/provider/6609999
Ends 22 July 2022