THORNWELL Primary School in Chepstow is celebrating a successful follow-up report by Estyn – the inspectorate for education and training in Wales - that indicates the school has taken great steps since the last time inspectors published their findings.

Following the previous inspection in December 2013 the school was asked to improve in six key areas and the focus of the revisit was to measure progress in addressing these.

Inspectors found that since the original inspection standards of writing across the curriculum have improved substantially while the school has made very good progress in developing pupils' presentation.

Literacy and numeracy skills have benefited from the range of opportunities provided by teachers' medium and long term planning and the inspectors recognised a high level of consistency in the quality of marking throughout the school.

Effective management by governors and senior leaders was also acknowledged. Inspectors noted that governors have suitable links with subject co-ordinators and make appropriate visits to help them monitor progress. Meanwhile, senior leaders have established effective methods for monitoring pupil performance and progress.

Councillor Liz Hacket Pain, cabinet member for schools and learning, said: "This impressive report reflects the progress made by all elements associated with the school.  They have worked together over the past 12 months to deliver improvements in standards and planning and the school's performance has demonstrated that it's currently in good hands.  It's heartening to witness how the school has moved forward since the devastating fire nearly four years ago.  The future looks bright."

Headteacher Tim Appleby said: "I am very pleased that the hard work of the whole team has been recognised. We feel that we have laid a firm foundation on which we will continue to build, and in doing so, provide an inspiring environment for the pupils of Thornwell so that they can reach their full potential.  I would like to thank all members of staff and the pupils for their diligence in securing these improvements.

"My thanks also go to the governing body, the leader of the Chepstow Primary Alliance and of course all parents and carers for their continued support of the school."