HMIe report - Duncan Forbes Primary School

Pupils, parents and staff at Duncan Forbes Primary School and Nursery in Inverness have received praise from Her Majesty’s Inspectors in their report which was published on 21 December.  The inspectors found evidence of a community which was working effectively in partnership to provide good quality learning experiences for pupils.

Head Teacher, Elaine Stewart, welcomed HMIe’s findings: “It presents an accurate picture of the school community and reflects the commitment and hard work of pupils, parents and staff over a number of years.  I am particularly pleased that the inspectors recognised the achievements of our pupils in reading and active learning.   They thoroughly deserve the praise they received for their enthusiasm for learning.”

Pupils, parents and staff were all commended by the inspectors.  Aside from the pupils’ achievements, the inspectors found that parents, the community and partner organisations demonstrated good team-work to meet pupil needs. The Head Teacher, Depute Head and staff were all praised for their commitment and teamwork.

Parents were praised for contributing to learning in a number of ways with almost all being highly supportive of the school.  The Parent Council was recognised for its valuable support especially in the area of fund raising.  Chairperson of the Parent Council, Lucy McCulloch, commented, “The Parent Council are pleased with the outcome of the recent HMIE visit and will continue to support the school in achieving their goals.”

The inspectors expressed confidence in the school’s capacity to improve and will make no further visits in relation to their recommendations.  Mrs Stewart believes that the report provides a very good platform for further improvement as the school moves into Curriculum for Excellence:  “We are pleased but certainly not complacent and need to continue to work on improving pupil Writing skills and our own self evaluation. With the continuing support of all parents and the enthusiasm of our wonderful children, I’m sure we’ll succeed.”