An Ammanford school has overcome a damning Estyn inspection by landing a glowing follow-up report.

Last year the education watchdog placed Ysgol Bro Banw in the category of “in need of significant improvement”, however a year on the school has been highly praised following an Estyn revisit on February 14 and 15.

The school has been judged to have made good progress in a relatively short period of time, which has seen it being removed from the list of schools requiring significant improvement.

The report published on the Estyn website on March 20 highlights the progress that has been made towards the seven priorities.

The report states that “pupils are making good progress in first and second language” as well as pupils “using higher-order reading skills and writing in a variety of forms effectively”.

It praises the school’s appropriate range of learning experiences taking account of the full range of pupils’ needs. There are also effective intervention programmes which include pupils with the potential to reach the higher levels.

Estyn further reported that leaders make highly effective use of the Pupil Deprivation Grant - money provided to support pupils eligible for free school meals - to provide enriching experiences for pupils and commented in particular on the ‘innovative’ Bright Futures project that has been developed at the school.

Last year’s report criticised the leadership of the school, which was considered “unsatisfactory” leading to a governor resignations.

However the latest report says there is now an open and honest ethos within the school with a clear focus on improving provision and outcomes for all pupils, which is supported by a strong and proactive governing body with a clear vision for the school.

The report also praised leaders for their development of a highly effective attendance tracking system and the introduction of a wide range of effective strategies.

The report concludes that it as a result of the latest inspection the school will be removed from Estyn’s list of schools requiring significant improvement.

Linda Bates, acting headteacher at Ysgol Bro Banw said: "I am absolutely delighted with the report, which is a true reflection of all the hard work undertaken by staff, the governing body and pupils. The report also highlights the commitment towards school improvement shown by all stakeholders. We will continue to build upon the excellent progress that has already been made."

Emma Williams, chairperson of the Governing Body added: "We are very pleased with the progress made and this is testament to the hard work and dedication of the acting headteacher and staff. The Governing Body remain committed to ensuring that each pupil fulfils their true potential."

Councillor Deian Harries, Governor at the school concluded: "I would like to congratulate all the staff for their hard work and to the leadership for driving forward these positive changes at the school, providing an excellent learning environment for our children.

The most recent inspection has resulted in a complete turnaround for the school and local residents can be very proud of the education which is available in our town."