School removed from education body's monitoring

Newtown High School has been removed from Estyn’s list of schools requiring review following improvements identified by education inspectors.

Powys County Council has welcomed confirmation from Estyn, the education and training inspectorate for Wales, that the school has made appropriate progress in addressing the key issues raised during its core inspection. Inspectors also recognised the school’s growing capacity to continue driving improvement.

Schools placed in the Estyn review category are monitored closely and receive additional support until inspectors are satisfied that progress has been made. The decision to remove Newtown High School from the list marks an important milestone for the school and its community.

Cllr James Gibson Watt, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said the outcome reflected sustained effort across the school.

“This is excellent news for Newtown High School and a clear reflection of the hard work, commitment and determination shown by the headteacher, staff, governors, learners and the whole school community,” he said.

“The school has made strong and sustained progress, and this outcome demonstrates the positive impact of their efforts.”

He added that the council would continue to work closely with the school.

“We value the constructive partnership between the school and the council and look forward to continuing to support Newtown High School as it builds on this progress and continues its journey of improvement.”

Newtown High School serves pupils from Newtown and surrounding communities and is one of the largest secondary schools in north Powys.