St Monica's C.I.W. Primary School, Cardiff

St Monica's C.I.W. Primary School is an English-medium school in Wales. Welsh schools are inspected by Estyn rather than Ofsted, and its latest report is published on Estyn's website.

It had 131 pupils in the 2025/26 school census.

23% of pupils are eligible for free school meals (three-year average).

Of its pupils, 11% have additional learning needs; 65% are learning English as an additional language; and 89% are from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

Year groups range from 11 pupils (Reception) to 26 (Year 6).

Estyn's report on its June 2026 inspection summarises St Monica's C.I.W. Primary School like this:

"St Monica’s Church in Wales Primary School is a welcoming and caring school where every pupil is valued. The school celebrates the diversity of its pupils and families, and this supports a strong feeling of respect and belonging. A commitment to the inclusion, well- being and progress of all pupils is central to the values of the school. Staff know pupils well and build strong, positive relationships which are evident throughout all aspects of school life. Clear expectations for behaviour and learning ensure most pupils engage well in their lessons and behave well around school. Overall, rates of pupils’ attendance are good."

"The school regularly admits pupils who speak English as an additional language throughout the year. Staff support these pupils effectively to settle quickly and make good progress in developing their oracy and reading skills. Most pupils, including those with additional learning needs (ALN) and those new to English, make good progress across the curriculum from their individual starting points. A wide range of pupil voice groups have a significantly positive impact on school life, enabling pupils to develop leadership skills and take increasing responsibility. The headteacher provides compassionate and highly effective leadership, supporting staff to work together well to realise the school’s vision. This is clearly evident in the nurturing, purposeful culture across the school."

"During a period of significant disruption at the start of the year, she provided strong leadership to support the well-being and continued progress of pupils, staff and families. Teachers work well together to plan purposeful and engaging activities and use questioning well to extend pupils’ learning. Most teachers provide appropriate challenge and support, though there are occasions when adults over-direct learning and this limits pupils’ opportunities to work independently. A consistent whole school approach to the planning and teaching of reading and mathematics supports most pupils to make strong progress in their learning. Many pupils have positive attitudes to learning Welsh and develop appropriate skills during their time at school. The governing body has a strong understanding of the strengths of the school and works successfully with leaders, staff, and pupils to support a positive culture of reflection and continuous improvement."

Estyn made 1 recommendation: (1) Strengthen opportunities for pupils to make choices about their learning and to work more independently.

The nearest other state primary schools to St Monica's C.I.W. Primary School are Cardiff Muslim Primary School (under 0.1 miles), Fairoak Primary School (0.3 miles), Ysgol Mynydd Bychan (0.4 miles) and Roath Park Primary School (0.7 miles).

The nearest railway station is Cathays Rail Station, about 700 metres away (roughly a 9-minute walk).

19 bus stops are within a five-minute walk; the closest is Llantrisant Street (after), 40 metres away.