HMIe Inspection Report on Gairloch Primary School

In a HMIe inspection of Gairloch Primary and Nursery the following key strengths were identified:

• Children’s wider achievements and their attainment in mathematics;
• Positive partnerships and community links which support children’s learning;
• Staff commitment to improving the school, and to the care and welfare of all children;
• The headteacher’s effective leadership of change.

Her Majesty’s Inspectors stated that the children in the nursery classes were happy and behaved considerately to each other. They were developing their vocabulary and could express themselves clearly. They were also making good progress in their learning. At the primary stages children showed a clear understanding of environmental issues and the school had achieved a Green Flag award from Eco-Schools Scotland. Children were taking an active part in a range of musical, sporting and cultural activities. Gaelic pupils achieved well at the local Mod and performed at a radio drama.

In the Gaelic medium primary classes, children were making very good progress overall in listening and talking in Gaelic. Their skills in reading and writing were progressing well. At the early stages in the English speaking classes, children were eager to read and did so with increasing fluency and expression. By P7 higher achieving children could respond sensitively to challenging texts. Throughout the primary classes, children wrote well for a wide range of purposes. Staff worked hard to help children to support their spelling. Across the school, children were achieving very well in mathematics and making good progress.

Inspectors noted that the headteacher had a strong commitment to the school and community. She was well supported by the Principal teacher. Staff were involved in developing the school’s vision and values.  In all classes staff knew the needs of individual children well and were very caring and supportive to them.  A number of parents worked alongside teachers in school and strong partnerships with members of the community helped to enrich children’s learning.

The Inspectors made three recommendations for the school which include working together better to develop good practice more consistently across all aspects of the school and nursery classes; continuing to improve children’s learning experiences, taking account of Curriculum for Excellence; and to improve self evaluation to ensure that the learning needs of all children are met.

However, they are confident that the school will be able to make the necessary improvements and they will make no further visits in connection with this inspection. 

Commenting on the report Mrs. Margaret Young Head Teacher, who also has management responsibility for Poolewe Primary School, said: “This report is very positive and provides a focus for ongoing developments. All of the staff at Gairloch Primary are hard working and committed to the school. We are keen to acknowledge the support of our parents and the achievements of our pupils, who have worked extremely well in their learning and have been open to developing new skills.”

Chairperson of the Parent Council, Ruth O’Brien, said: “The Parent Council welcomes the findings of the report. We are proud of the links the school has established in the local community, and the strong partnership between staff, pupils and parents. We will continue to support the school in strengthening these links wherever possible.”