Collaboration and support from peers help to strengthen the all-age sector

The number of pupils taught in all-age schools has more than doubled since 2017, and local authorities and school leaders have overcome specific challenges and obstacles to establish new schools successfully. However, according to a report published today by Estyn this growing sector isn’t recognised discretely enough.

Estyn recommends applying the learning gained by their successful introduction to create national guidance for all-age schools. This would better support their establishment, reduce duplication and strengthen their impact on pupils and the community. All-age schools currently support each other well through a national network to share challenges and best practice.

Strategic Director Claire Morgan says,

All-age schools are most successful when they fully involve the community in their set up. In these schools, leaders and the local authority share the benefits with parents, staff and governors and keep them informed of reorganisation plans.

Because many of these schools have only been established a few years, it’s difficult to evaluate their full impact. From the inspection outcomes we do have, it’s a varied picture, with wellbeing and attitudes to learning being a particular strength of the sector.

Featured in the report is Ysgol Llanhari, Rhondda Cynon Taf, which was expanded to offer education for pupils age 3 to 19 and has around 700 pupils. The school has creatively developed learning experiences, focusing strongly on Curriculum for Wales. Pupils enjoy owning and influencing their learning which has had a positive impact on their wellbeing and behaviour. Staff are also more confident to share expertise and embrace their own professional learning.

Further examples and recommendations in the report can help support other all-age schools, local authorities and the Welsh Government to overcome challenges in the sector and learn from successes.