Headteacher 'delighted' about positive Cairney School inspection
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INSPECTORS said they expect Cairney School to get even better after rating the school "good" in all categories.
The inspection report, based on a March 2023 visit, praised the 22-pupil school for cultivating a sense of pride in the pupils, who enjoy learning there and are "kind, caring and look after each other well".
It also said staff create a positive and encouraging environment for pupils; that wellbeing is a key focus; and that teachers successfully deliver a broad curriculum.
Despite the positive evaluation, some areas were highlighted as leaving room for improvement.
The Education Scotland report said that pupils' self-evaluations could be recorded better; that a "whole school" approach to monitoring progress should be set up; and more planning and clear goals would benefit the learning of pupils with additional support needs.
However, inspectors also said they believe the school is ready to improve in these areas, and "will make no more visits in connection with this inspection."
Cairney School headteacher Trish McLellan said: “We are delighted to have been rated ‘good’ across the board by inspectors from Education Scotland.
“During their visit they found numerous strengths in our work, including the warm and inclusive learning environment provided by staff, with a strong focus on wellbeing.
“We are extremely proud of our teaching staff who were highlighted for providing a broad curriculum, involving children in planning their learning, and providing rich opportunities for children to develop skills for leadership, learning, life and work."
In Scottish school inspections, a "good" category is the third-highest rating available, below "excellent" and "very good".
Education Scotland said a school rated "good" has "important strengths" which "have a significantly positive impact on almost all children and young people" but also "some aspects which require improvement."
Ms McLellan became Cairney School's Headteacher in November 2021, on top of her duties as Headteacher at Glass School – a role she has held for 12 years.
She said efforts to meet the inspection's recommendations have already begun.
“Whilst the report found some areas for improvement, we are already hard at work," she said.
"And we’re pleased to note that inspectors were confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve.”
The categories in which the school was assessed and rated good were: leadership of change; learning, teaching and assessment; ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion; and raising attainment and achievement.
