HMIE report - Duns Primary School
Wednesday, October 3 2007
Duns Primary School and nursery class were inspected in June 2007 as part of a national sample of primary and nursery education.
The inspection covered key aspects of the work of the school at all stages. It evaluated nursery children’s and pupils’ achievements, the effectiveness of the school, the environment for learning, the school’s processes for self- evaluation and innovation and its capacity for improvement. There was a particular focus on attainment in English language and mathematics.
HM Inspectors identified the following key strengths:
- Enthusiastic pupils who enjoyed school and, in the nursery, children’s motivation and enthusiasm in their learning activities.
- The quality of pastoral care.
- Positive relationships with parents and the community.
- The commitment of the acting headteacher and staff.
The inspection team found the quality of pastoral care was good and that pupils felt safe and well cared for, in a happy learning environment. Additionally, pupils enjoyed an innovative exercise programme for pupils and staff.
The school had established effective links with Berwickshire High School and a range of agencies to support the transition of P7 pupils to S1. The report also highlighted that pupils are proud of their school and relationships between staff and pupils are good.
Acting headteacher, Mrs Kath Easton, is pleased that the report reflects the commitment of hard working staff and the pupils’ enthusiasm. She said: “It is particularly reassuring that the inspection team reported on the very effective relationship and partnership the school has developed with parents and the community.”
Both the school and local authority are looking forward to working in partnership to address the main points for action outlined in the report in order to secure improvement in:
- The quality of leadership and self evaluation
- The quality of the curriculum to ensure greater progression in pupils’ learning
- The consistency of learning and teaching approaches
- Pupils’ attainment
- Aspects of accommodation
The school and the local authority have been asked to prepare an action plan indicating how they will address the main findings of the report and to share the plan with parents. HM Inspectors will engage with the school and the education authority to monitor progress, and will undertake a follow through inspection within two years.
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