Growing Teaching & Learning

Changing the culture around teaching and professional growth.

Ysgol Cwm Brombil

SITUATION

Ysgol Cwm Brombil faced a persistent challenge: establishing a cohesive school culture amid rapid growth and the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic. Opening in 2018 as a new school and absorbing additional students in 2019 highlighted gaps in unity and consistency. The pandemic further complicated teaching and learning processes, revealing the need for a stronger, more resilient community. Although the school adapted, these adaptations were reactive rather than proactive, leading to fragmented practices across departments.

THEORY

In 2021, recognising the need for a structured approach to professional growth, leaders anticipated that fostering a coaching culture would drive meaningful change in teaching and learning. The school adopted the Welsh concept of ‘Tyfu’ (grow) to symbolise this organic development. By implementing a non-judgemental, research-informed coaching process independent of line managers, they aimed to create a supportive environment where teachers could refine their practice. The expectation was that this approach would lead to noticeable improvements in student engagement and learning outcomes across the school.

ACTION

By 2022, after an initial cycle, cultural shifts were visible but inconsistent across the school. Estyn’s October 2022 review led to the school being placed in monitoring. To address this, leaders adopted the WalkThrus Programme Implementation Project (WPIP), focusing on pupil engagement. With clear, manageable strategies like Think, Pair, Share and Cold Calling, the school aimed to get everyone aligned. Senior Leadership Team (SLT) integrated into the process, supporting evaluations and ensuring coherence across departments.

RESULTS

Subject Leaders saw renewed purpose and structure in meetings, driving a collective focus on teaching and learning. WalkThrus provided a practical framework that fostered buy-in and momentum. Learning walks became collaborative rather than evaluative, leading to more open dialogue and problem-solving. School-wide, teaching and learning refocused, with a shared toolkit enhancing confidence and alignment across departments.

TAKE-AWAYS

Go slow to achieve more

Focus on gradual, sustainable growth.

Stay problem-focused

Keep revisiting the core issues to ensure progress.

Value critics

Use critical feedback constructively to stay curious and adaptive.

Build momentum

Continued progress fosters sustained motivation.

Hold the line

Consistency is key to cultivating the right culture.

PROFILE

Ysgol Cwm Brombil, a growing 3-16 school in South Wales, is dedicated to fostering a coaching culture in teaching and learning. Despite challenges, the school remains committed to continuous improvement and alignment across departments.

Written by
Annelise Taylor, Assistant Head Teacher