Estyn report highlights strengths in classrooms but says too many pupils face gaps in learning

A NEW report by Wales’ education watchdog has found examples of excellent science teaching across the country but warns that inconsistent provision is preventing many pupils from developing the scientific knowledge and skills they need.

Inspectors from Estyn found strong practice in both primary and secondary schools, with some pupils benefiting from engaging practical experiments, real-world learning opportunities and well-planned lessons that build understanding over time.

However, the report concludes that the quality of science education remains “too variable” across Wales, with weaknesses in curriculum planning, teaching and assessment continuing to affect pupils’ progress.

Inspectors said problems were particularly evident when pupils moved from primary to secondary school, where poor coordination often led to repetition of work, gaps in learning and uneven levels of challenge.

His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, Owen Evans, said science education plays a crucial role in preparing young people for future careers.

“Science plays a vital role in helping young people understand the world around them and preparing them for future study and employment,” he said.

“While we saw encouraging examples of effective practice in schools across Wales, too many pupils experience an inconsistent science curriculum that does not build their knowledge and understanding systematically enough over time.”

The report also highlights ongoing difficulties recruiting and retaining specialist science teachers, particularly in Welsh-medium education.

Growing importance

The findings come at a time when demand for science, technology and engineering skills is increasing across west Wales.

Projects linked to renewable energy, environmental monitoring, advanced manufacturing and the Celtic Freeport are expected to create new opportunities requiring strong STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) skills over the coming years.

Estyn said schools need to strengthen teachers’ subject knowledge, improve curriculum planning and work more closely together to ensure pupils progress smoothly through their education.

The watchdog also called on local authorities, school improvement services and the Welsh Government to invest further in science-specific professional development and tackle shortages of specialist teachers.

The report was commissioned by the Welsh Government and examined science teaching in primary, secondary and all-age schools across Wales.

Michelle John founded PEGS in 2020 and has helped thousands of parents across the UK while driving national awareness of a little-understood issue

A PEMBROKESHIRE-born campaigner who has dedicated her career to supporting families affected by child-to-parent abuse has been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List.

Michelle John, who grew up in Pembrokeshire and now lives in Shropshire, has been awarded an MBE for services to family support and advocacy.

Michelle is the founder of PEGS, a social enterprise established in 2020 to help parents and carers experiencing abusive behaviour from their children. The organisation also works with professionals, policymakers and employers to improve understanding of Child to Parent Abuse (CPA), an issue believed to affect up to one in ten households across the UK.

Since launching PEGS, Michelle has built a specialist team that has trained police officers, teachers, social workers and other frontline professionals to recognise the signs of CPA and provide effective support to affected families.

The organisation has also developed a range of services for parents, including daily practitioner-led support sessions, peer support networks and one-to-one assistance for those considered most at risk.

Michelle’s work has gained national recognition, with PEGS helping to shape policy discussions and working alongside government departments to raise awareness of the issue. The organisation also launched a Child to Parent Abuse Covenant for employers in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions.

In addition, Michelle has advised organisations including the Home Office, the BBC and Channel 4, helping inform storylines and coverage designed to increase public understanding of child-to-parent abuse.

Responding to the honour, Michelle said: “This honour is also shared with the parents who have trusted me along the way: they drive me, inspire me and I will always stand with them.

“I feel proud, privileged and very grateful – and I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me and PEGS along the way.

“There is much more to come for PEGS, and we will continue to work every day for the parents and carers who have been or continue to be affected by CPA.”

Reflecting on receiving the award, she added: “Being told I’d received an MBE will always remain a truly incredible moment that I’ll remember forever.”

The award recognises more than six years of campaigning, support work and advocacy aimed at bringing greater awareness to a problem that often remains hidden behind closed doors.

Child-to-parent abuse can include physical violence, verbal abuse, coercive control, intimidation, property damage and financial abuse directed towards parents or carers by their children.

Michelle’s work has helped shine a light on the issue nationally, ensuring that more families receive the support they need while encouraging professionals to better understand the challenges faced by those affected.

For many in Pembrokeshire, the honour will be a source of pride as one of the county’s own receives national recognition for helping vulnerable families across the UK.

Giant puppet procession marks 850 years since the first recorded Eisteddfod

LORD RHYS continued his journey through west Wales today, Sunday (Jun 21), as communities in Cenarth and Newcastle Emlyn welcomed the giant puppet procession marking 850 years since the first recorded Eisteddfod.

The striking figure of Lord Rhys was seen crossing the historic bridge at Cenarth, surrounded by woodland, banners and crowds of onlookers.

Later, the procession continued into Newcastle Emlyn, where music and performance formed part of the travelling celebration.

The event is part of Taith yr Arglwydd Rhys, a cultural journey commemorating the legacy of Rhys ap Gruffydd, the Welsh prince who held a gathering of poets and musicians at Cardigan Castle in 1176.

That gathering is widely regarded as the first recorded Eisteddfod and remains one of the most important moments in Welsh cultural history.

Photographs from today show the giant puppet towering above the streets and bridges of west Wales, creating another memorable scene after Friday’s misty launch in St Davids.

The journey will continue towards Cardigan, where the anniversary celebrations will reach their finale.