Back
Mount Stuart Primary praised for inclusive ethos and strong community in latest Estyn inspection


29/5/2025

Mount Stuart Primary School in Butetown, Cardiff, has received a glowing report from Estyn, the Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales, following its recent inspection.

The report highlights the school as a "welcoming and inclusive school with a clear vision that brings staff, pupils, and parents together." Inspectors praised the school's strong values of respect, resilience, and creativity, which underpin a vibrant learning culture and enable pupils to develop confidence and a genuine love of learning.

Estyn highlighted the school's successful implementation of a rich, diverse curriculum with leaders strongly committed to embedding anti-racism and diversity. They lead professional learning that helps others to deepen their understanding of best practices in diversity and curriculum development, both within the school and more widely.

The school's curriculum strongly reflects its diverse community and staff carefully plan learning experiences to ensure representation of all cultures and religions. This broadens pupils' perspectives and strengthens the inclusive learning environment. The dynamic, bespoke curriculum provides opportunities for pupils to engage enthusiastically with the arts and to make connections between Wales and other cultures and nearly all pupils feel inspired by the curriculum and connect well with their learning.

The school was also commended for:

  • Positive relationships between staff, pupils, and families, creating a strong sense of community.
  • A diverse and engaging curriculum, including standout opportunities in the arts.
  • A commitment to diversity and anti-racism, with staff providing training support to other schools.
  • High expectations for language and communication skills, supported by the school's multilingual environment.
  • A well-structured and nurturing early years provision that fosters independence and curiosity in young learners.

With 56.8% of pupils speaking English as an additional language and 41.3% eligible for free school meals, the school's success in promoting inclusion and academic progress was noted as a key strength. The inspection team also praised the school's commitment to pupil voice and the way older children are encouraged to lead on issues that matter to them.

Headteacher Helen Borley who has led the school since 2017, welcomed the report, she said:"We are delighted with the way the report reflects the hard work and commitment of the whole staff team to doing our very best for the school community."

Professor Gary Beauchamp, Chair of Governors, stated that; This report highlights to immense pride and hard work ofallmembers of the school community in striving provide the best opportunities for every learner and their families."

Estyn identified three key areas for further development which

Governors and school leaders are already committed to addressing through a robust action. They include:

  • Ensuring pupils apply numeracy skills across the curriculum
  • Broadening the range of digital skills pupils can access
  • Improving pupil attendance

Cardiff's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "Estyn has recognised the heart of what makes Mount Stuart Primary School so special - a warm, inclusive environment where every child is valued and supported. The strong values of respect, resilience, and creativity are acknowledged in the report and the dedication of staff, the strength of the community, and the enthusiasm of pupils, make the school a vibrant and inspiring place to learn."

At the time of inspection, Mount Stuart Primary School had 433 pupils on roll with 3.6% of pupils identifying as having additional learning needs.