Ysgol Pontrhydfendigaid is a wonderful school with a happy, caring and welcoming ethos where the well-being of all pupils is a clear priority. Pupils make a significant contribution to the pleasant, hard-working ethos that is characteristic of the school and take pride in their school and community. They are well behaved and treat others with natural courtesy and respect. The school has a robust culture of safeguarding and, as a result, pupils feel safe during their work and play and enjoy their time at the school. Most pupils make sound progress in developing their literacy, mathematics and digital skills from their starting points. However, there are not always enough opportunities for pupils to apply their numeracy skills fully across the curriculum. Teachers work together productively to provide a curriculum that offers a wide range of exciting and interesting experiences that reflect the school’s local context in full. As a result, pupils are inspired and their attitudes to learning are extremely robust. Teachers have an excellent working relationship with pupils that is full of care and respect. They have sound subject knowledge, ensure that learning activities have a suitable pace and provide stimulating learning areas and experiences that foster pupils’ natural curiosity. However, feedback from staff does not always identify the next learning steps for pupils effectively. Assistants promote pupils’ progress skilfully by providing appropriate learning experiences and support programmes. The headteacher has a clear and robust vision for the school. This vision focuses on ensuring the well-being of pupils and providing them with the best possible learning experiences. She shares her vision effectively with everyone in the school community. The school’s other leaders provide the headteacher with strong support and, overall, have an accurate understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. The governors are firm advocates of the school and show a good awareness of the school’s activities. They support leaders and staff purposefully.