Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg has received a highly positive report from Estyn, with inspectors praising the Barry secondary school for its caring community, rich curriculum and strong commitment to Welsh language development.
The inspection found that pupils benefit from a wide range of meaningful learning experiences and show pride in their Welsh identity. Inspectors highlighted the school’s success in developing confident Welsh speakers, noting that pupils’ speaking and listening skills are a particular strength and support progress across all areas of learning.
Estyn also commended the school’s inclusive approach, especially its support for pupils with additional learning needs, and recognised its ongoing commitment to professional learning and improvement.
Several examples of effective practice were identified, including work to enrich pupils’ Welsh language skills and the use of teacher enquiry projects to strengthen teaching and learning. Estyn has invited the school to share these approaches as national case studies.
The report also praised the school’s anti‑racism strategy, noting that pupils learn effectively about the history and experiences of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities. Inspectors said an ethnic minority pupil group has played a “beneficial influence on leadership and curricular provision” by sharing real‑life experiences and helping shape the school’s anti‑racism policy. Staff training and research projects were also recognised for deepening understanding and improving curriculum design.
Inspectors added that the curriculum supports pupils’ creative and cultural development through performing and expressive arts, as well as extensive extra‑curricular opportunities such as choirs, Eisteddfod competitions, concerts and school productions. They described the school’s broad extra‑curricular offer as “a notable strength”.
Chair of Governors Robert Evans said the report reflects the dedication of the whole school community “We are delighted that the inspection recognises the hard work, dedication and commitment of staff, pupils and the wider school community,” he said. “The report reflects the welcoming, caring and inclusive environment that Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg strives to create every day, where every learner is encouraged to achieve their full potential.
“We are particularly pleased that Estyn has recognised the strength of our Welsh language provision and the wide range of opportunities available to our pupils.”
Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh Language, welcomed the findings “This is a very positive inspection report that reflects the dedication of the school's leadership, staff, governors and pupils,” she said. “Estyn has recognised the school's inclusive ethos, the high‑quality learning experiences it provides and its commitment to developing pupils' Welsh language skills. Congratulations to everyone involved on this achievement, and we look forward to continuing to support the school as it builds on these many strengths.”
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