A chair of governors has hailed the “remarkable turnaround” of a Cardiff primary school that has been taken out of special measures after just two years.

Pentrebane Primary School was originally placed in the category by Estyn following an inspection in the summer term of 2023, which led to several monitoring visits.

Following the appointment of a new headteacher, Elizabeth Prescott, and the reorganisation of the governing body, the school drew up an action plan to address inspectors’ concerns.

In a report published today, Estyn said the school had made sufficient progress to be removed from special measures.

Doug Corp, chair of Pentrebane Primary School’s governing body, said: “To be removed from special measures after just two years is a remarkable turnaround, and demonstrates the determination and resilience of the entire school community.”

The report said that, since the original inspection, school leaders and staff have “worked with determination and focus to significantly strengthen the quality of teaching across the school”.

It added: “Teachers plan lessons more purposefully and provide greater levels of challenge. As a result, many pupils, including those who require additional support, now make strong progress.”

The report praised the school’s senior leadership team, and especially the headteacher, Mrs Prescott. It said: “The headteacher leads with strength and purpose, showing clear determination to address the school’s recommendations.”

It also noted that attendance across the school has improved “significantly”, adding: “Strategies to support more vulnerable pupils, including those eligible for free school meals, are particularly effective.”

Pentrebane Primary School headteacher Mrs Prescott welcomed the report.

She said “I’ve always believed that Pentrebane is a good school with effective teachers, and I’m delighted that this has now been confirmed by Estyn.

“Our journey out of special measures could not have been achieved without the backing of the local authority, regional consortium, staff, the governing body, parents and the wider community, and I’d like to thank everyone for their ongoing support.”

Mr Corp added: “Thanks to the strong and inspiring leadership of the headteacher and the hard work and dedication of the entire staff, the future of Pentrebane Primary School looks very bright indeed.”