Ysgol Y Garreg, Gwynedd

Ysgol Y Garreg is a Welsh-medium school in Wales. Welsh schools are inspected by Estyn rather than Ofsted, and its latest report is published on Estyn's website.

Estyn's report on its January 2023 inspection summarises Ysgol Y Garreg like this:

"This is a homely and inclusive school that promotes pupils’ Welshness and well-being effectively. Staff have a good understanding of pupils’ needs and provide them with robust care and guidance. Teachers provide a wide range of stimulating and engaging experiences that engage pupils’ interest effectively. However, at times, teachers have a tendency to over-direct learning and the level of challenge is not always suitable to meet the needs of all pupils. Pupils’ behaviour is robustly good and they show a high level of motivation and interest in their work."

"They are very willing to contribute their ideas and discuss their views maturely with their peers. They treat each other and staff with respect and are willing to support others when necessary. As a result, nearly all pupils take ownership of their learning and make sound progress in their skills over time. They take pride in the opportunities they are given to contribute to what they would like to learn within their termly themes. However, pupils are not always given opportunities to play a prominent part in decisions that affect them across the school."

"The headteacher provides the school with clear strategic leadership. She works closely with governors and staff, who support her effectively to set priorities for improvement. They have a sound understanding of the school’s main strengths and areas for improvement. Together, they work diligently to move teaching and learning forwards effectively."

Estyn made 2 recommendations: (1) Ensure an appropriate level of challenge to support pupils to develop their skills to the best of their ability; (2) Provide opportunities for pupils to undertake leadership roles to contribute to the work and wider life of the school.

The nearest other state primary schools to Ysgol Y Garreg are Ysgol Cefn Coch (1.7 miles), Ysgol Y Gorlan (3.4 miles), Ysgol Eifion Wyn (3.5 miles) and Ysgol Talsarnau (3.6 miles).

The nearest tram or metro stop is Penrhyn (Ffestiniog Railway), about 1.3 miles away in a straight line.

2 bus stops are within a five-minute walk; the closest is Brondanw Arms (opposite), 240 metres away.