Estyn highlights strengths in Carmarthenshire's Welsh language immersion provision

An Estyn inspection of Welsh language immersion arrangements in Carmarthenshire has highlighted strong strategic leadership, effective teaching and successful support for pupils developing their Welsh language skills.

The report recognises the significant expansion of immersion provision across the county in the last year. Inspectors noted that local authority officers provide “strong strategic leadership” and have successfully expanded provision, distributed responsibilities effectively and developed the capacity of centre leaders to contribute to quality assurance and improvement activities.

Estyn highlights the authority's clear vision for Welsh language immersion, focused on widening access to Welsh-medium education and supporting pupils to develop confidence in using the language. The report also recognises productive partnerships with schools, neighbouring local authorities and external organisations that support the continued development of the provision.

Inspectors praised the quality of teaching and learning experiences provided through the authority's immersion centres. The report notes that staff provide engaging learning experiences that enable most pupils to develop their Welsh listening and speaking skills well. Learning activities provide regular opportunities for pupils to use Welsh in meaningful contexts both within the classroom and in the wider community.

A particular strength identified by Estyn is the way staff enrich learning through real-life experiences. The report highlights how pupils apply Welsh language patterns and vocabulary through authentic activities and community visits, helping them to develop confidence in using Welsh in everyday situations and strengthening their understanding of Welsh as a living language.

The report also recognises the progress made by pupils during their time in the centres. Inspectors found that most pupils make strong progress in developing their Welsh language skills and increasingly use Welsh confidently when communicating with others.

Wellbeing and support arrangements were also noted as strengths. Staff know pupils well and provide effective support that helps meet individual needs. Inspectors found that learning environments are welcoming and inclusive, promoting positive relationships between staff and pupils. Most pupils behave well, engage positively in their learning and settle quickly into centre life.

Estyn also highlighted the authority's commitment to developing workforce capacity through professional learning opportunities, including secondments, visits to other centres and the sharing of effective practice. The report notes that these arrangements strengthen expertise across the workforce and support the continued development of Welsh language immersion provision.

Carmarthenshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Glynog Davies, said:

The report highlights the considerable work that has taken place to expand Welsh language immersion provision across Carmarthenshire and strengthen access to Welsh-medium education. It is encouraging to see recognition of the quality of teaching, the support provided to learners and the positive experiences available through the immersion centres. We will continue to build on this work and address the recommendations identified within the report."