At Ynysowen, we recognise that we have ‘More Able and Talented’ (MAT) pupils.

Individual pupils are encouraged to develop their attributes, skills and potential within a learning environment that embraces equality of opportunity and provision.

Talents will emerge in a wide range of subjects and fields and we recognise the importance of developing the whole child. School and individuals can thrive in a culture of ambition and aspiration. MAT pupils achievements are celebrated during our ‘Celebration’ assemblies each week.

We identify MAT pupils and Mrs J. Evans and Mrs C. Minnet coordinate the provision.

Ynysowen is one of only a small handful of schools across the Uk who have achieved the prestigious NACE award three times.

NACE are independent charity founded 40 years ago, the National Association for Able Children in Education (NACE) works with schools, education leaders and practitioners to improve provision for more able learners. They believe that through a focus on meeting the needs of more able learners, and embedding an ethos and culture of high expectations for all, schools can ensure all young people have opportunities to flourish.

Their work is guided by the following core prinicples, 

• The education of more able learners is a whole-school endeavour which should be embraced by school leaders at all levels.
• Addressing the needs of more able learners can raise achievement for a much wider group of learners in a school by increasing challenge for all.
• Providing for more able learners is about creating a curriculum which gives opportunities for all children to flourish.
• Considering the needs of more able disadvantaged learners is crucial to ensuring an inclusive and fair curriculum.
• Ability can be revealed across a range of specific domains, or more generally, and not only in traditional academic subjects.
• An ethos and culture of high expectations and aspirations is integral to any school providing for more able learners.
• Teachers are central to providing challenging and enriching education, and their professional development is paramount.
• Ability is a fluid concept: it can be developed through challenge, opportunity and self-belief.

Our latest reports from NACE can be found here...