Pencoedtre High School in Barry has been making positive changes to overcome challenges and improve its standing. The school, which was placed in special measures in 2022 following an Estyn inspection, has been implementing various strategies to tackle behavioural issues and low staff morale. Executive headteacher Innes Robinson has been leading these efforts, stating that the school is gradually moving in the right direction.
Upon arriving at the school in early 2024, Mr Robinson recognized the need to address the low morale among staff members, who felt demotivated due to the school’s special measures status. Measures such as a mobile phone ban, introduction of extracurricular clubs, and even a football video game club have been introduced to create a more positive learning environment. These changes aim to foster a sense of enjoyment and engagement among students, thus reducing behavioural issues.
One of the key issues identified at Pencoedtre High School was poor attendance, with reports of teachers resorting to locking classroom doors due to safety concerns related to student behaviour. Mr Robinson highlighted the importance of improving staff confidence and creating a more supportive culture to encourage students to attend school regularly. While challenges like verbal and physical abuse were initially prevalent, the school has been working towards implementing solutions to address these issues.
In addition to addressing behavioural challenges, efforts have been made to enhance literacy levels among students. Mr Robinson noted that students at Pencoedtre often enter the school with literacy levels significantly below the average, necessitating the use of intervention programmes to bridge the gap. Despite the progress made in improving attendance, with rates rising from 75% to 79%, concerns remain about the overall attendance figures.
The school’s approach to tackling issues such as social media distractions and overcrowded corridors reflects a holistic effort to create a conducive learning environment. By promoting active participation in lunchtime clubs and discouraging the use of mobile phones during the school day, Pencoedtre aims to foster a more positive and engaging atmosphere for both students and staff members. These initiatives align with the school’s broader strategy of boosting morale and enhancing the overall educational experience.
Whilst progress has been reported in certain areas, challenges remain, such as sustaining improvements in attendance rates and addressing deeper-rooted issues affecting the school community. The commitment shown by the leadership team and staff at Pencoedtre High School highlights a collective effort to overcome obstacles and drive positive change. By prioritising student well-being and academic development, the school aims to continue its journey towards becoming a thriving educational institution. Through collaborative efforts and a focus on creating a supportive environment, Pencoedtre High School is working towards a brighter future for its students and staff.