School makes a good effort

Jun 26 2009 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

A PERTHSHIRE primary school is continuing to improve, according to a recent report.

And the inspection, carried out at Auchtergaven, Bankfoot, in May, 2009, and led by the HMIe’s Fiona Pate, identified the leadership of the school’s headteacher – Frances Dean – as a key reason for its continuing success.

It also cites the way in which Auchtergaven caters for pupils requiring additional support needs, as well as the commitment of staff to change and improvement, as “key strengths”.

The school, as well as its adjacent nursery class, was evaluated in five areas.

Inspectors categorised its efforts as “good” across the board, something which the report says illustrates “important strengths with some areas for improvement”.

Inspectors classed the main areas for improvements as the need to:

l Evaluate curriculum changes and develop them in line with the principles of the Scottish Government’s Curriculum for Excellence.

l Develop a positive behaviour strategy in consultation with staff, children and parents to address low-level issues.

l Improve the level of challenge within the children's learning.

l Develop clear approaches to evaluating progress and developing improvements in the nursery.

Perth and Kinross Council’s lifelong learning committee convener, Councillor Liz Grant, said the findings prove the school has a solid foundation from which to build.

She said: “This is a good report for Auchtergaven and I particularly welcome the HMIe's recognition of the strong leadership of the headteacher and the commitment shown by all staff to improving the school’s work.

“There are some areas for further work which we will be taking forward with the school, but I am confident Auchtergaven Primary School has a solid basis from which to improve.’’