Teaching and Learning

 At Cardiff West, our approach to teaching and learning is rooted in high expectations, strong relationships, and a shared belief that every pupil can succeed. Lessons are carefully planned to be engaging, inclusive, and challenging, with clear learning objectives and regular feedback to help pupils understand their progress and next steps. We place a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy across all subjects, while also encouraging creativity, collaboration, and independent thinking. We are proud of the diversity within our school community and are committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with Additional Learning Needs (ALN) and those who speak English as an Additional Language (EAL), are fully supported. Our staff work closely with specialist teams to provide tailored support, scaffolding, and resources that help every learner access the curriculum and thrive. At Cardiff West, everything we do is guided by the Four Purposes. We aim to develop pupils who are ambitious, capable learners, ready to learn throughout their lives; enterprising, creative contributors, ready to play a full part in life and work; ethical, informed citizens, who understand and engage with the world around them; and healthy, confident individuals, who are ready to lead fulfilling lives as valued members of society. These purposes are at the heart of our curriculum and shape the way we teach, support, and inspire every learner.

Cardiff West’s Five Fundamentals
Our teaching and learning framework places planning at the heart of effective practice. The central wheel emphasises that high-quality teaching begins with thoughtful planning that aligns with pupil needs and the Curriculum for Wales Four Purposes. Planning acts as the foundation for everything else, ensuring that learning is coherent, inclusive, and purposeful. Around this core are five interconnected areas, each a "fundamental" of effective teaching, that support deep learning, rapid progress, and the development of essential skills for every learner.