We are pleased to share that Bishopston Comprehensive School has been recognised in the 2025 Estyn inspection report for our continued commitment to providing an excellent, high-quality, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment. This recognition reflects the enthusiasm of our pupils, support of parents/carers, the dedication of our staff and the strength of our school community.
“High quality teaching is a notable strength of Bishopston Comprehensive School, and this fosters strong pupil engagement, exemplary behaviour and consistent progress.”
The Estyn report clearly recognises that our school continues to deliver high-quality education through outstanding teaching, a broad and balanced curriculum and a strong culture of achievement. The report highlights the consistently high standard of teaching and learning, where teachers use effective questioning, secure subject knowledge, and foster positive relationships that inspire all pupils to engage and succeed.
“Pupils are enthusiastic learners and collaborate effectively with one another in a supportive manner to enhance their learning.”
“They embrace the school ethos that it is ‘cool to do well in school’.”
Importantly, our inclusive ethos is fully recognised in the Estyn report celebrating the tailored support for pupils with additional learning needs. We are delighted that the individualised interventions and a nurturing environment were recognised by Estyn in ensuring that every learner is empowered to reach their full potential. This inclusive approach reflects the school’s dedication to equity and excellence for all.
We believe that all pupils deserve to feel safe, happy and respected in our school. We are delighted that Estyn recognised the highly effective pastoral system that supports this culture:
“The school provides strong pastoral support and an effectively planned and responsive personal and social education programme.”
“Nearly all pupils demonstrate high levels of wellbeing. This has an extremely positive impact on the standards they achieve and on their personal development.”
Our whole school community values and promotes mutual respect and positive behaviour, which was also recognised by Estyn:
“Pupils behave in an exemplary manner in lessons and around the school. They are courteous and polite to others.”
“They respond maturely to adults and engage confidently in discussion about moral and ethical issues and current affairs.”
In preparing ‘lifelong learners’, we are delighted that Estyn identified that a key strength of the school is our commitment to developing essential skills for life. Literacy, numeracy and digital competence are fully embedded across the curriculum, enabling pupils to become confident communicators, critical thinkers and digitally fluent learners. Creativity has also been highly commended, recognising the school’s innovative approach to nurturing creativity across the curriculum in lessons, intergenerational projects and whole-school events. This commitment to the development of skills and highly effective learning has earned Bishopston an invitation to share best practice in three national Estyn case studies, further strengthening our reputation as an excellent school.
Estyn also recognised leadership at all levels in Bishopston as ambitious, inclusive, and forward-thinking.
“Leaders are ambitious and inclusive and pupil and staff wellbeing are prioritised.”
The strong partnerships with the local community, a focus on pupil wellbeing, and opportunities for student leadership were all celebrated in the Estyn report. We believe these are paramount and contribute to a vibrant and supportive school culture where there is a ‘sense of belonging.’
“Pupil voice is a valued and influential part of school life. There are extensive and purposeful opportunities for pupils to take on leadership roles. A wide range of pupils undertake leadership roles, and this inclusivity strengthens the sense of belonging across the school community.”
The Estyn report also recognises our high aspirations, focus on continual improvement and professional learning to support pupils teaching and learning and wellbeing.
“The robust systems for self-evaluation, improvement planning and professional development ensure that there is a strong culture of collaboration and accountability.”
Bishopston Comprehensive School continues to set a culture of excellence, innovative teaching, and a commitment to every learner. We are proud to be a community where pupils are proud to say: “It’s cool to do well in school.”