A PENARTH author has written a book lifting the lid on the Welsh education system.

Specialist education journalist Gareth Evans recently published 'A Class Apart' after two years of writing and researching Wales' schools, colleges and universities since devolution.

Wales' chief schools inspector was among those present at the launch of his new book.

Cardiff University's prestigious Viriamu Jones Gallery played host to former Stanwell School pupil Gareth Evans and his guests for the unveiling of A Class Apart.

Estyn's Ann Keane, WJEC chief executive Gareth Pierce and Director General of Education Owen Evans were among 40 dignitaries from the world of Welsh education attending last Wednesday's festivities (March 18).

A Class Apart investigates the effectiveness of educational policies, such as the Foundation Phase and Welsh Baccalaureate, introduced by the Welsh Government since 1999 and assesses whether they have been successful.

Spanning all major policy developments, from primary to higher education, it also assesses the legacy of the two main protagonists, former Education Ministers Jane Davidson and Leighton Andrews.

Gareth investigates issues he says some policymakers wished were swept under the carpet and delves deeper to analyse the big issues effecting educational practitioners in Wales.

He looks at Welsh education's place on the world stage; the growing funding gap between Wales and England; the role of schools inspectorate Estyn; and the truth behind Wales' ambitious PISA target.

Described as "Wales’ most incisive commentator on education" by Lee Waters, director of the Institute of Welsh Affairs, specialist education journalist Gareth has been writing on Welsh education since 2009.

Gareth, who lives in Penarth, writes extensively about his many meetings with Andrews and Davidson, both of whom he describes as "formidable" subjects.

He said: "Welsh education has a fascinating back-story and it has been a great privilege to work alongside those whose job it is to nurture the next generation.

"I hope that the book will shed new light on some of the biggest changes ever undertaken in Welsh education and, free from the shackles of political bias, am confident that A Class Apart will provide a fresh outlook on an ambitious sector still feeling its way.

"Wednesday's launch was a great success and I was delighted that so many familiar faces turned up in support. Collectively, we are all aiming towards the same goal - to see Welsh education rise again."

A Class Apart, published by the Welsh Academic Press, is out now priced £16.99.