An Excellent Start For Lochaber's Newest School

Ardnamurchan High School has received a very positive report confirming that, since its opening in August 2002, it has successfully established itself as a six-year secondary school. The HMIe inspection, which took place in March, identified a number of key strengths including the innovative use of ICT across the school, good opportunities for learning for all pupils, the commitment of staff and a caring school, positive relationships between teachers and pupils and the courteous behaviour of pupils and very effective partnerships with parents and the wider community. The report went on to comment on the school’s very welcoming, calm and purposeful atmosphere.

Head Teacher Catherine MacDonald said: "We are delighted that the report recognises the hard work and dedication shown by pupils, staff, parents and the wider community in ensuring that Ardnamurchan High School provides the very best learning and teaching environment possible. The report has highlighted the very good start made and also acknowledges the potential to improve still further. We recognise that we have to build on the very promising beginning to ensure that Ardnamurchan High School continues to provide a full and comprehensive learning experience for all Ardnamurchan and Morvern’s young people."

School Board Chairman Aidan Edwards, said: "This excellent report reflects the benefits to the community of having a High School so closely identified with the local area. The School Board is delighted to support the Headteacher and staff in achieving such a successful start to the new school and look forward to working together to maintain such high standards."

Local Councillor Michael Foxley, Vice-Convener of The Highland Council, said: "This is an excellent report and a real credit to the head teacher and her staff. I was especially pleased to read that pupils are very well cared for and their learning needs are well met. This just highlights the wisdom of the long campaign to win a community high school for the communities of Ardnamurchan and Morvern."

The school roll is expected to increase from 100 to 125 at the start of the new school session in August.