A NEWPORT school has been commended for good practice in mathematics in a new report by education watchdog Estyn.

Caerleon Comprehensive School, which has 1,545 pupils, was one of just four schools in Wales to feature as a case study for best practice.

The thematic report, good practice in mathematics at key stage three, was published today and is based on inspections undertaken in 15 secondary schools in Wales between 2010 and 2013.

It reveals that Caerleon Comprehensive has continued to increase the percentage of pupils achieving at least a level five in mathematics.

Currently, 92 per cent of pupils achieve this target and this compares favourably with the family, local authority, and Wales averages.

This improvement is also reflected at the end of key stage four, with 76 per cent of pupils achieving an A*-C grade in mathematics.

The acting head teacher at the school, Gavin Jones said that the report's findings are owed to the school's maths department constantly evolving.

He said: “It’s great that our practices have been recognised and that they may even be taken on by other schools.

“The department has not stood still and has always been looking to try new things, which is commendable in itself.

“We’ve got 11 members of staff in the maths department, with a very dynamic and motivated head of department in Peter Harriman.

“The school has a tradition of making sure we have the most qualified members of staff. It might sound basic, but that’s quite important in having the greatest impact.”

Nationally, the report reveals that results for pupils aged 11-14 have improved across Wales. However, girls are still achieving more than boys, and pupils eligible for free school meals are not doing as well as other pupils.

Ann Keane, Estyn chief inspector, said: “Mathematical knowledge, understanding, and skills are increasingly important for everyday life. It is crucial that pupils develop a secure grasp of mathematics during their school years.

“It is encouraging that teacher assessments show that pupils are achieving the expected level in mathematics at the end of key stage three, and that results have improved over the last five years.

“Schools should ensure that all pupils are able to achieve their full potential in mathematics. I urge all schools take note of the recommendations in the report and use the best practice studies to help improve their own mathematics departments.”