A CARING and inclusive primary school has won high praise from education inspector Estyn.

And not only has Llansamlet's Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Lôn Las been branded excellent when it comes to its current performance, the school's prospects for future improvement have been labelled the same.

It is believed to be one of very few schools in Wales under Estyn's new inspection framework to achieve this score.

In total, nine out of ten of the compulsory indicators on which schools are judged were marked excellent, such as standards and wellbeing, and one was marked good — the learning environment.

Head teacher Dyfrig Ellis said he was extremely proud of the school's achievements.

He added: "Under the new inspection framework, schools are asked to submit a self-evaluation report based on pupils' outcomes and attainment, standards of teaching and the quality of leadership. The inspection team agreed 100 per cent with the school's evaluation.

"We have worked consistently hard to raise standards. We have adopted an integrated curriculum that concentrates on developing Key Skills through independent learning.

"This was a new initiative introduced at Lôn Las in 2006 that has transformed teaching and learning. Today we stand proud with Estyn's seal of approval."

According to Estyn, excellent means "many strengths, including significant examples of sector-leading practice".

Inspector Jeff Jones's report said: "There is a caring, inclusive and happy ethos, the contribution of all pupils and staff is appreciated and everyone is treated with respect."

It added: "Pupils throughout the school develop well as independent learners; they build upon prior knowledge effectively and readily adapt their understanding and skills to new situations."

The report also notes the school has the lowest budget per pupil of the 86 primary schools in the city.

Ann Rosser, chairwoman of the school's governing body, added: "The report recognises the strong and effective partnership that exists between all stakeholders."

helen.keates@swwmedia.co.uk