At Ysgol yr Hafod Primary School, pupils feel safe, happy and ready to learn. The school nurtures curiosity and supports independence effectively, which creates a positive climate for learning. Well-designed environments and purposeful independent learning opportunities, such as ‘over to you time’ and ‘amser sialens,’ encourage pupils to explore, think creatively and work cooperatively. These experiences help pupils to become confident, resilient learners who behave well and show respect for others. The headteacher provides strong and effective leadership that promotes high expectations and positive partnerships among staff, parents and pupils. Leaders use what they learn about the school’s strengths and areas for improvement to improve teaching and support pupils’ progress. Governors know the school well and provide valuable support and challenge to help leaders improve provision and outcomes for pupils. Teachers benefit from well-planned professional development that helps them improve their practice and promote pupils’ well-being. They generally plan learning experiences that engage pupils well. Most teachers use questioning effectively to check pupils’ understanding. This enables most pupils to build on what they know and make good progress. Occasionally, a few pupils do not make the progress they could, because tasks do not match their needs closely enough. Most pupils speak clearly and listen carefully, and older pupils talk confidently about their learning. They enjoy reading and use a range of strategies to understand texts. As they move through the school, most become confident readers, speakers and writers. The school is developing useful approaches to help pupils reflect thoughtfully on their progress, although this is not yet consistent across the school. Most pupils develop secure mathematical skills and knowledge. They use practical resources well to support their understanding and apply their skills effectively to solve problems. This enables them to deepen their mathematical thinking. The school provides strong support for pupils with additional learning needs (ALN). Staff identify their needs at an early stage and ensure that most make good progress with their learning and well-being. Pupils in the Resource Provision Unit (RPU) benefit from a caring ethos and feel valued, supported and fully included in school life.