News

Estyn finds Pembrokeshire’s education service improving

Published

1 year ago

November 11, 2022

A REPORT by Wales’s schools’ inspectorate, Estyn, released on Friday (Nov 4), found improvement in the performance of the County Council’s Education Directorate.

Estyn monitored Pembrokeshire County Council’s Education services during October this year. As a result of the improvements found – affecting learners, teachers, and officers – Pembrokeshire has moved out of the category of causing significant concern.

The last inspection, in 2019, contributed to the sudden departure of the former Director of Education, Kate Evans-Hughes, and led to her replacement by Stephen Richards Downes.

That report made four core recommendations the Council had to address, found the Council’s education services caused inspectors “significant concern” and needed follow-up scrutiny. The report’s authors identified learner outcomes were too variable, and high-achieving pupils lacked support.

Responding to the 2019 inspection, the then-Acting Director of Education, Stephen Richards-Downes, said: “In terms of teaching and their leadership, the buck stops with schools. I think probably one of the things that have happened in the local authority is that there has been too disparate an approach, and we must focus on identifying good teaching and good leadership to make sure they happen in all our schools.”

In the new report, Education Directorate officers receive praise for taking on board the findings of the previous inspection and implementing the previous recommendations. Where plans are not meeting expectations, the Council provides support and challenge to lead staff to ensure they get back on track.

The report finds that, since the inspection, the County Council has made significant strides in helping schools to improve. It notes the authority has made key appointments bringing “quality and valuable experience” into Pembrokeshire’s education system.

The report says, “There has been a tangible improvement in working relationships with schools” and that the authority has “cemented a more productive working relationship with schools through the involvement of headteachers in reference groups and seeking their views on new developments”.

Within the Education Directorate, Estyn found a more proactive approach meant officers identified schools needing additional support earlier and intervened when necessary.

At the time of the 2019 inspection, three of the local authority’s secondary schools were in a follow-up category after unsatisfactory inspections. Since then, two schools have moved out of the follow-up category. While one of the schools, Greenhill, made only limited progress against its earlier inspection Estyn noted recent improvements have helped the school address previous shortcomings.

Cllr Guy Woodham, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “We are pleased that the work of our schools and education services have been recognised for the improvements that have been made.
“We wish to continue improving education for all our learners in Pembrokeshire and will continue to make progress. We have significantly improved our provision and evaluation during one of the most challenging periods in education in recent times. We will continue to monitor our performance carefully as we strive for better outcomes.”

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

18 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.

Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.

The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.

Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.

Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.

As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.

For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.

With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.

Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

Published

18 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.

At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.

The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”

With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.

Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.

Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.

Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

Published

19 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.

Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.