Follow-through HMIe Inspection of Lairg Primary School

As part of the inspectorate’s ongoing strategy for evaluating the educational provision of local authorities, a report is issued today on the inspection by HMIe of the quality of education at Lairg Primary School.

The follow-through report is based on an inspection visit which was carried out in November 2009 and describes the improvements that have been made since the original inspection in 2008.

In a very positive school report, HMIe highlighted as strengths the well behaved, confident children who are eager to learn; the involvement of the Head Teacher and staff in making learning more active for the children; the improvements that the school has made in evaluating its own practice; and the raising of attainment in reading and mathematics.

HMIe noted that children are now more active in their learning, taking more responsibility and are keen to discuss their learning and their achievements.  Children now listen carefully to each other and discuss their own ideas with confidence.  Attainment in reading and mathematics has improved with most children achieving appropriate national levels.  Children said they are proud of their school, that they get more enjoyment from learning and feel more involved in the life of their school by being involved in a number of committees.

HMIe acknowledge that the school is taking forward improvements and that the leadership of the school is much improved.  The Head Teacher and staff are now much clearer about the future direction of the school and the improvements they wish to make to ensure that children continue to make good progress in their learning.  Staff are now working well together to provide a better quality education for children.  Overall, Lairg Primary School shows good capacity to deliver continuous improvement.

As in all reports, HMIe suggest ways in which the school might sustain its agenda for improvement and has identified the need to further improve attainment in writing in concert with continued effective leadership, commitment of staff and support from the authority, the school is well placed to continue to improve.  In light of this context, HMIe will not make any further visits.

The Parent Council continues to support the school well and the Head Teacher is now involving parents more in helping children improve their learning.  Dr. Fiona Fraser the Parent Council’s Chairperson said: “We are encouraged by this positive report and have seen for ourselves the improved leadership and the big effort made by all to get Lairg Primary School back on track. We hope that this forward momentum is maintained especially with regard to pupils writing. The Parent Council will continue to support the Head teacher and the school in achieving this."

Head Teacher Isobel Gillies said: “Staff have worked together to deliver the best possible education to the children in our community and are delighted to note that HMIe have recognised their efforts.”

Councillor Bill Fernie, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Education, Culture and Sport Committee said: “The Head Teacher, staff, parents and pupils at Lairg have put a great deal of time and effort into making the improvements noted by HMIe.  It is pleasing that these efforts have been recognised and that the level of improvement has satisfied HMIe that no further intervention is needed.  Well done to all concerned.”