The River Centre 3-16 Learning Community in °¬˛ćAƬ has been removed from special measures following a highly positive monitoring visit by Estyn.
Estyn confirmed that the school has made sufficient progress against all recommendations, highlighting stronger leadership, improved pupil behaviour and a more nurturing and inclusive culture across the school.
Inspectors noted greater leadership stability, a settled staffing structure and a clear shared vision focused on meeting pupils’ emotional needs. They also observed consistently positive behaviour, with pupils described as calm, respectful and engaged.
Improvements to the curriculum and learning environment were also praised, alongside broader opportunities including sport, visits to the Senedd and participation in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, helping pupils to build confidence, resilience and aspirations for the future.
Headteacher Kieran Dash said:
“I am absolutely delighted with the decision from Estyn. Our dedicated staff have worked tirelessly to support our children and young people, and I am proud of every one of them. Our fantastic pupils have been true partners in this journey, demonstrating improved attitudes to learning, self-confidence and resilience.
“We are proud of how far we have come and are determined to keep moving forward to be the very best learning community we can be. Thank you to the Council, our school governors, parents/guardians and curriculum partners for their unwavering support.”
The report outlined strong support for the school from governors, °¬˛ćAƬ Council and partner agencies.
Councillor Sue Edmunds, the Council’s Cabinet Member Children, Young People and Families, said:
“This is a hugely positive outcome and a testament to the hard work and commitment of staff, leaders and partners at the River Centre Learning Community. We have seen real and sustained improvements in leadership, behaviour, well‑being and the quality of learning. Most importantly, it shows that pupils are now benefiting from a calmer, more nurturing environment where they feel safe, valued and supported to succeed. This wholly supports our priorities to give every child the best start in life and to achieve lifelong learning, well-being and resilience for our communities.”
Chair of Governors, Councillor Jen Morgan said:
"I’m very proud of the school's governing body, senior leadership and staff for their hard work and commitment to making these improvements and for their dedication to the lives of our children and young people."
The River Centre 3 - 16 Learning Community provides education and support for children and young people who have social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs or who are unable to attend mainstream school for a period of time.
To read the Monitoring Report in full go to;