I am delighted to be appointed as the Acting Headteacher of the Upper Afan Valley Federation of Schools. I have been fortunate enough to work in the comprehensive for over 12 years and have observed how through the development of the Federation, education has grown and flourished.
The Federation and wider community are currently experiencing a number of challenging issues but as Acting Headteacher, I offer you a personal commitment that pupils’ learning and success will be at the forefront of all the schools across the valley.
As a federation, we have always put great emphasis on personal development as well as academic achievement and this will continue to be a major focus this year, regardless of the current consultation process. Every child matters to us; we are committed to developing well-rounded individuals with a thirst for life-long learning. It is my ambition that every child will achieve their best and look back on their time within the Federation with fond memories and a real sense of achievement.
Our pupils make outstanding progress and achieve impressive exam results due to their hard work and the high-quality teaching provided. The vertical curriculum is something that the Comprehensive School prides itself on, the results that have been produced by pupils in year 9, 10 and 11 have been superb and it has also provided opportunities for MAT (More Able and Talented) pupils. Some of the highlights from 2018-18 results day include:
- 93% of Year 9 GCSE / BTEC entries produced at least a ‘C’ grade or Pass.
- 77% of year 10 GCSE / BTEC entries gained at least a ‘C’ grade or Pass result
- 28% of year 10 GCSE / BTEC entries gained A or A* results or the equivalent.
In addition to academic progress, an excellent range of extra-curricular activities, trips and leadership opportunities are available for our pupils making the Federation a vibrant community in which all are encouraged to develop their talents to the full. This is achieved through charitable work, citizenship projects, sporting activities, culture and the arts for pupils. These opportunities enhance pupils’ well-being, inquisitiveness and creativity.
At Cymer Afan Comprehensive School, our personalised approach to teaching and learning is at the heart of all that we do and provides opportunities for our pupils to be successful.
I recognise how crucial it is to be part of a team; indeed, this is why as a school we seek to work so closely with pupils, parents, staff, governors and the wider community in all that we do.
We extend to you a warm welcome if you would like to contact us.
Gavin Groves
Acting Headteacher