A PUPIL referral unit in Torfaen has received two good ratings from Estyn, with inspectors praising the school’s learning environment in helping to provide a solid learning environment for the pupils.

Inspectors from Her Majesty’s Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales visited the unit during November last year.

The unit, in Pontypool, which has just 27 pupils on its roll, provides education for students at key stage three and four level and who have social, emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Estyn officials rated the PRU as good – both in terms of current performance and for its prospects of improvement.

The report stated its findings based on the good progress the students were making in terms of their learning and that the pupils were meeting targets, while the role of the teachers was also praised.

Inspectors praised the learning environment at the site on Ty Glyn, just off Albion Road in the Torfaen town, rating it as excellent.

“The PRU is an exceptionally nurturing and supportive community with very high quality pupil centred planning for all pupils,” stated the report.

“Relationships between staff and pupils are excellent. All members of staff and nearly all pupils are proud to be part of the community.

“The PRU promotes diversity and equality well and celebrates every pupil’s achievement. The ethos at the PRU supports pupils to develop tolerant attitudes and respect for the values of others.

“Staff challenge pupils’ low expectations sensitively and, over time, pupils increase their self-esteem and confidence.

“Displays around the PRU enhance pupils’ learning, celebrate pupils’ work and provide excellent reminders of standards and codes of conduct.

“Available space is used well and colourful displays encourage curiosity and learning. The accommodation is generally well maintained."

However, inspectors noted that the teachers could potentially use the learning environment at the Torfaen school to better promote their teaching and learning.

“The outside classroom area supports pupils’ learning, for instance for art sessions. There is a good range of learning resources, including interactive white boards and tablet computers,” stated the report.

“However, staff do not utilise these fully to promote teaching and learning.”

Inspectors also added that the senior leadership teams had made great strides in improving the overall quality of the school since its last inspection.

“The PRU has made excellent progress since the last inspection,” stated the report.

“Pupils’ standards and wellbeing have improved. It has secured a stable a leadership team who work very effectively together.”