Ysgol Gymraeg Caerffili consistently achieves an attendance rate
above the national average for Wales and, in September 2025,
achieved an attendance rate of 98.2%.
There are a range of reasons or underlying causes for learner
absence. Effective relationships between schools and families are
essential and, to support this work, £7 million in Welsh
Government funding has been provided this year to help children
re-engage with school.
This funding package includes an extra £3 million for Family
Engagement Officers, £2 million for enrichment activities, £1
million to further embed the role of Community Focussed Schools,
and £1 million for our Food and Fun, School Holiday Enrichment
Programme.
Acting Headteacher of Ysgol Gymraeg Caerffili, Eleri Jones, said:
“We take a whole-school approach to improving and maintaining
attendance, rooted in the relationships we build with pupils,
staff and families.
“All members of staff, including our School Clerk and Health and
Wellbeing Officer who carry out the Family Engagement Officer
role, work closely with families, and we communicate any concerns
in a positive, supportive way. This ensures a truly holistic
experience for our learners.
"School has to be a place pupils want to attend – and thanks to
our outstanding teaching and the rich experiences we provide,
we're able to offer exactly that.
“We're proud that our ethos has led to exceptional attendance.
This achievement reflects the commitment of our pupils, families,
and staff, and we will continue to build on this success.”
Cabinet Secretary for Education, , said:
“To ensure every child accesses the education they deserve, we
must continue to address the barriers that prevent learners from
attending school. This school demonstrates what's possible when
we combine targeted support with strong family and wider
community engagement.
“I want to thank all the school staff and families for working
together to achieve this. Their work and commitment show how
working directly with families and having open and clear
communication makes a real difference.”
It is for Local Authorities and schools to identify how to
prioritise and use their Family Engagement Officer funding.
