Education services in Ceredigion have been rated positively by Estyn.

The national education inspectorate praised Ceredigion County Council for its robust delivery of education services in a series of glowing accolades on September 2, 2024.

After a comprehensive inspection of the council’s education service that included analysis of learner outcomes, school performance, and the quality and standard of support being provided, Estyn found numerous areas of strength within Ceredigan's provision.

Inspectors were particularly impressed with the council's clear emphasis on ensuring stable, high-quality education for students over an extended period of time.

"This is largely due to strong leadership; clear and intended strategies and ambitions; and close collaboration," the report highlighted.

It also praised the authority’s track record of maintaining and improving their provision and achieving good outcomes for Ceredigion's children and young people.

The report highlighted the authority’s robust vision for its school improvement service, which centres on providing the best possible experiences for all children and young people in Ceredigion.

This extends to delivering strong learning, teaching, and fostering pupils' standards of well-being.

In developing leadership capacity, the report noted the authority's priority and its strategy to overcome national recruitment challenges.

The scheme includes professional learning, secondments, and facilitating the work of the school improvement team.

Ceredigion’s measures in terms of developing the Welsh language were labelled a "significant strength", with visible elements of excellence in its provision and practices.

Officials from various departments displayed commitment to the ambitious Welsh in Education Strategic Plan (WESP), which focuses on fostering the Welsh language.

Elen James, Ceredigion’s chief education officer, said: "It is a pleasure to share the excellent results of our recent inspection.

"This report from Estyn is extremely positive and I am grateful to the inspectors for their thorough work.

"I am delighted that Estyn has recognised that Ceredigion officers have a supportive, productive and positive working relationship with the authority's schools, along with relevant organisations and partners."

Ms. James also praised the use of data to identify strengths and areas of improvement in students' performance.

Meanwhile, Councillor Wyn Thomas, Ceredigion’s cabinet member responsible for schools, lifelong learning and skills, praised the staff's commitment and dedication.

He said: "This report is a testament to the perseverance, support and effective collaboration between everyone involved in the educational journey of every child and young person in Ceredigion."

While the report was overwhelmingly positive, Estyn highlighted two areas for improvement - to continue boosting attendance within the authority's schools and to enhance self-evaluation and planning for better processes.

The council has agreed to act upon these recommendations.