Vale of Clwyd Senedd Member, Gareth Davies MS, visited Christ the Word Catholic School in Rhyl, meeting new acting Headteacher Lucy Feliciello, outgoing Interim Headteacher Neil Foley, and Chair of Governors John Droog ahead of the school’s Estyn inspection.
The visit highlighted the significant progress made recently, with leaders emphasising the renewed sense of stability, strengthened staff culture, and a clear strategic vision for continued improvement. The leadership team told Mr Davies of their confidence in the new Headteacher, Ms Feliciello’s vision having worked at the school for five years and being familiar with the community, understanding its challenges and its strong pastoral background.
The school’s leadership team outlined to Mr Davies a range of improvements targeted at high teaching standards, better attendance, better behaviour, and a more supportive staff culture. A key focus of the school’s ongoing work is raising aspiration amongst pupils and strengthening support for pupils with English as an Additional Language (EAL), with the school’s leadership expressing a desire for the school to become a centre of excellence for such education regionally.
Collaboration across the Rhyl learning cluster has strengthened, allowing for more flexible staffing support and shared problem solving between schools. Gareth heard of the school’s continuing work to develop positive engagement with parents and the wider community, including efforts to become the first choice for pupils attending local Catholic feeder schools.
Commenting following the visit, Gareth Davies MS said:
“Christ the Word is clearly turning a corner, and it was great to see the stability and shared vision now driving the school forward.
“The new Headteacher and the school’s leadership team have a demonstrable understanding of the school’s needs and have a clear plan to support pupils, families, and staff in a way that is both ambitious and realistic.
“I look forward to continuing to support the school as it builds on this progress and strengthens its role at the heart of the community.”