Positive report on MacDiarmid Primary School and Nursery, Skye

In a recent HMIe inspection of MacDiarmid Primary and Nursery, Skye, the following key strengths were identified:
 • Children’s experiences in the nursery and primary classes.
 • Polite children who are enthusiastic, confident and motivated to learn.
 • Staff’s commitment to improving learning and teaching.
 • Positive and supportive relationships within the school community.

Her Majesty’s Inspectors stated that children learn and achieve well. In the nursery class, children were very eager to participate in activities. They were also confident in following their own interests and with skilful adult support, often became absorbed in their learning. Children in the primary classes were also highly motivated. They responded well to opportunities to reflect on their own work, to make decisions and to be independent. All children enjoyed working with children in other classes. Children developed confidence and citizenship skills through taking part in the many events and competitions in the community and after-schools clubs.

In the nursery children were developing their early literacy and numeracy skills very well. They enjoyed looking at books, listening to stories and were beginning to recognise sounds and printed words. They were also confident using appropriate mathematical language when measuring, counting, identifying and matching shapes. In the primary classes, children were making good progress in language and mathematics. They listened well and many were articulate in and confident speakers with strong presentation skills. Throughout the school children read well. In all classes writing was improving. Across the school and nursery children were able to manage and interpret information well. Children achieved well in music and sport. All children were learning Gaelic language.

Staff provided a welcoming, purposeful and supportive learning environment. Learning support was well organised to provide specific support to children when they need it. Support assistants worked very well to provide specific help for all children. Parents had a very active role in the nursery and school. They provided very strong support in fundraising, enterprise activities, eco work and in supporting learning activities.

Teamwork in the school was very strong. The headteacher had established a very open and welcoming ethos where everyone felt valued and included.

Inspectors made two recommendations for the school which were to:

• Continue to develop Curriculum for Excellence ensuring continuity and progression in children’s learning from stage to stage and;

• Develop further the way everyone leads improvements in learning, including more opportunities for children to lead and take responsibility. 

HMIe Inspectors were satisfied with the overall quality of provision and confident that the school’s self evaluation processes are leading to improvements. As a result, Education Scotland will make no further visits in connection with this inspection. A copy of the letter is available at the following link:
www.educationscotland.gov.uk

Mrs Susan Lumley, Head Teacher, said: “I am delighted that the HMIe report highlighted the hard work of the dedicated staff, the achievement of all of our children and the valuable contribution of parents and the community. The report gives us a clear direction to continue our work in ensuring that all the Macdiarmid children enjoy learning and reach their true potential.”

Mrs Samantha Wadham, Chairperson of the Parent Council, said: “The Parent Council are pleased with the findings of the report and delighted that the HMIE recognised the high standard of education that our school delivers. With many positive comments being received and key strengths identified, we know that the school will continue to build on their successes, develop the areas of improvement and continue to maintain their strong links with the community. The Parent Council look forward to supporting and working with the school so they continue to achieve great things - well done Macdiarmid Primary School & Nursery.”