Commenting on the Chief Inspector’s Annual Report 2022-23 published by Estyn today, Laura Doel, National Secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT Cymru, said:

“As this report shows, pupils are still showing the impact of the pandemic on their learning and outcomes. But it is important to note that progress is being made – and it is good to see Estyn recognising the dedication of educators in Wales as they tackle the challenge of recovery.

“Unfortunately, no matter how dedicated the professionals, schools can’t be expected to make up the gap without everyone playing their part. Some of the issues still holding pupils back are happening outside the school gates, from mental health issues to the impact of increasing levels of poverty in families thanks to the cost-of-living crisis.

“We do need to see Welsh Government doing more to prioritise children and young people, both by taking steps to help families with wider societal problems, but also by properly investing in and resourcing schools in their recovery efforts. Great teachers are what will make the most difference, and we need to ensure they are supported and rewarded in order to retain the best for Welsh students.  Additional challenges like delivering the new curriculum have come at just the wrong time, and if we hope to close the recovery gap, we need to make sure schools have the staff and funding to focus on the key part of their jobs – educating.”