01550 760400On Friday 13 June we received our Estyn inspection report. The report, has left staff, parents and learners glowing with pride!
Estyn is the inspector for education and training providers in Wales. This includes specialist FE colleges like Coleg Elidyr.
James Slater, CEO, Elidyr Communities Trust said:
“We are completely thrilled with this result. The inspection experience was incredibly positive, and I’m extremely proud of the whole team for all their hard work. Providing the best quality learning experience for the young people we support is what drives our organisation forward, so it’s wonderful when this is properly recognised.”
Great results for Coleg Elidyr, over many years
The outcome of this inspection is not a one-off. It is the latest in a series of consistently amazing results. Coleg Elidyr was awarded ‘excellent’ in all areas in 2014, 2019 and four areas of our provision have been highlighted as being sector leading. Despite working in a sector where government funding for Special Education Needs (SEN) / Additional Learning Needs (ALN) is under tremendous pressure, Coleg Elidyr continues to deliver excellence.
Coming to a residential college is a big step for young people
The Elidyr Communities experience is something that also delights parents, who have often fought hard for their child to access appropriate education throughout their school days. Leaving home and coming to Coleg Elidyr in rural Wales is often a huge moment for the whole family.
Geraint Wadley, Head of Education said:
“When a young person arrives at Coleg Elidyr it is often the first time they have lived away from home. They are reliant on others for many aspects of daily life and haven’t been able to articulate their own wants and needs. Our skilled and experienced team of Tutors, Support Staff and Therapists all work together to create an individual learning plan that knits together communication, learning and life skills. Parents are often astounded by the progress their family member makes in just a few weeks.”
Living and learning on one unique site is a powerful experience
The uniqueness of the Elidyr community and integration between living and learning is a theme that defines the provision at Coleg Elidyr, and this was particularly identified by the recent inspection.
The Estyn report states:
“Whilst at college learners thrive in a familiar and exceptional community setting to live more independent lives. As a result, nearly all develop strong independence skills. The college provides learners with significant opportunities to continually develop skills in real life settings and in the wider community, which will support them in their future lives. This is a significant strength of the college.”
The report also outlines:
“The needs of learners are exceptionally well understood by staff. This is well supported by a multidisciplinary team, including speech and language, occupational therapy and a positive behaviour lead. This team supports the development of a highly effective total communication approach. Staff provide superb levels of care and support for learners, whilst supporting them to work independently.”
There were no specific recommendations for improvement.
To read the full report visit the Estyn website: Coleg Elidyr Estyn Inspection Report 2025