St Joseph's R.C. Primary School in Gabalfa has received high praise from Estyn, the Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales.

Following a recent inspection, the report highlights the school's nurturing environment, strong relationships between staff and pupils, and the excellent behaviour and attitudes of learners across all year groups.

Inspectors described the school as a "vibrant, inclusive and nurturing environment" where nearly all pupils feel safe and supported. The quality of teaching and the school's commitment to pupil wellbeing were praised, with particular commendation given to the way staff meet the needs of learners from diverse backgrounds, including the 25.7% of pupils who speak English as an additional language.

The report also highlights the school's proactive leadership and the meaningful role pupils play in shaping their own learning experience. Notably, the school's "Learning Squad" was recognised for its impact on improving assessment strategies, empowering pupils to take ownership of their progress.

Former Headteacher at the school Alexandra Riordan, who retired last month said: "The whole school community is extremely proud and happy with the report which builds on successes of ensuring our pupils are ready to become kind and caring global citizens.

"We are a Gold Rights Respecting School, have achieved our 3^rdEco Flag and have also achieved the highest Fairtrade award, enabling pupils to think critically about issues that face our global society and learn that they have rhetorical power to make a difference to our world and to the lives of others. We have also gained the National Healthy Schools award, Siarter Iaith silver award and Philosophy for Children bronze award.

"We are not "resting on our laurels" and are striving towards becoming a School of Sanctuary and achieving the Live Simply CAFOD award, continuing to move our school forward. Thanks to each and every one of our staff for their amazing hard work in making our school the wonderful place that it is. We know we have a "vibrant, nurturing and inclusive environment" and it is lovely to have that validated by ESTYN.

"Thank you too to all our parents and carers for their continued support. Our hardworking and caring pupils are a credit to both them and their teachers. Following my retirement after eight years as headteacher at the school, this lovely report was an extra leaving gift!"

Estyn noted some areas for development, including the need to improve opportunities for older pupils to develop their independent learning skills, enhance independent learning experiences for younger pupils to support their developmental needs and enable them to use their skills at an appropriate level and improve opportunities for pupils to apply their numeracy skills in their work across the curriculum.

The school will address these recommendations in its action plan.

Cardiff's Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "St Joseph's R.C. Primary School should feel proud that staff have created a community where every child is valued and supported. The feedback from Estyn affirms the hard work and dedication of everyone at the school who are committed to building on this success and continuing improvement and pupil-centred learning."

At the time of inspection, St Joseph's R.C. Primary School had 229 pupils on roll. 23.5% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, 25.7% of pupils speak English as an additional language and 2% of pupils identify as having additional learning needs.