Primary school’s ‘remarkable’ attendance figures praised in the Senedd

A primary school in Caerphilly has been praised in the Senedd for its “remarkable” pupil attendance figures.

Ysgol Gymraeg Caerffili, on Pontygwindy Road, achieved an attendance rate of 98.2% in September – the highest figure in Wales.

Speaking in the Senedd on Tuesday November 25, Caerphilly MS Lindsay Whittle said: “It’s a remarkable achievement and a testament to the dedication of pupils, families and staff working together.

“What we see there should inspire, I believe, all schools across Caerphilly and Wales.

“Strong relationships with families and a welcoming environment really does make a difference.”

Education secretary Lynne Neagle agreed with Mr Whittle and said: “I’m very happy to add my congratulations to Ysgol Gymraeg Caerffili. It’s great to see them having all that positive media coverage.

“I understand that they have made this progress not just through strong relationships, but through excellent enrichment activities, which proves the point, really.”

Mr Whittle, who has volunteered at two local schools on a literacy project for eight years, continued: “Ysgol Gymraeg Caerffili shows that it’s possible when the investment is in the right place.”

He went on to pose a question to the education secretary about the Welsh Government’s £7 million family engagement officer funding. Mr Whittle asked: “Whilst I appreciate it’s for local authorities and schools to decide how best to use the family engagement officer (FEO) funding, can the cabinet secretary confirm how much of the £7 million announced will be allocated… to the Caerphilly County Borough area, or is it subject to a bidding process?”

In response, Ms Neagle said: “In terms of FEOs, the £7 million is money in this financial year – that’s £3 million for FEOs, and that will go up to £4 million in the next financial year.

“The money does go out via the LAEG, and that goes out on a formula basis. They won’t have to bid for it, and I can write to you at a later date when we know what the allocation for Caerphilly is going to be.”