Positive HMIE report for Newcastleton Primary
Thursday, February 8 2007
The headteacher and staff at Newcastleton Primary School have welcomed the very positive report from the HMIe, published today, following their inspection of the school in October of last year.
The report was an excellent endorsement of the work of the school.
Headteacher George Gilchrist said: “The staff and I are very pleased with the content of the report. I am particularly pleased that the hard work and dedication of all the school staff has been reflected. The fact that our relationship with the local community and parents is seen as excellent by the inspectors is especially pleasing and is recognition not only for the school but also parents and community in Newcastleton.”
The report further identified key strengths of the school in the positive relationships amongst staff and the well behaved and enthusiastic pupils. It was also felt that there were very good opportunities for the pupils to achieve in a broad range of areas and be involved in decision making in the school in a meaningful way. The inspectors found very good support for pupils with additional needs and recognised the high quality of pastoral care for pupils. The school’s introduction and innovation in personal learning planning was also singled out and praised.
Mr Gilchrist added: “Whilst the process of inspection was quite an intense one for all staff, we welcomed the opportunity for professionals from outside the school and the authority to contribute to the development of the service we offer. We look forward to working with all partners of the school to further improve as we continue on our journey to excellence.”
Speaking about the report, Ann Hardy, Newcastleton School Board Chairperson, said: “I think this is an excellent report and the children, staff and community can feel proud of their school.”
Those areas identified for action by the inspectors and headteacher will form the focus of an action plan in the next School Improvement Plan. Progress on this will be reported to parents in the Quality and Standards Report within two years.
Unified Solutions.