Inspectors give primary school top marks

Mar 6 2008 By Graham Fraser

HIGH Blantyre Primary School has received a glowing report from school inspectors.

Out of the inspection’s 16 indicators of performance, High Blantyre was marked very good — the second top grade — in five, while it achieved a ‘good’ for the remaining 11.

The inspection was particularly positive on the school’s facilities.

It recognised the impact the new school building, which was built in January 2006 at the cost of £8m, had to life in High Blantyre.

The school’s development was part of South Lanarkshire Council’s £400m Schools’ Modernisation Programme.

High Blantyre Primary were congratulated for the contribution made by their Parent Council and the High Blantyre Primary PTA.

The report also commended the efforts of head teacher Liz Craig.

The school, which has a roll of 381 children, and its associated nursery were inspected in September 2007.

Inspectors were impressed with the positive relationships between pupils and staff and the commitment of the teachers and support workers in the care of all the pupils.

They also noted the support given to the school’s 36 pupils who have autism spectrum disorder.

The HM Inspectors’ report concluded: “High Blantyre Primary School provided a very modern, stimulating, welcoming and caring environment for learning. There was a climate of mutual respect and trust where pupils felt happy, safe and valued.

“The experienced head teacher was highly committed to the school and its community. She had managed the move to the new school very effectively.”

The inspectors further noted some areas where the school can improve, including raising the attainment of pupils ability in English and maths.

Liz Craig, the head teacher of High Blantyre Primary School, said: “We are very pleased with the contents of the report.

“The commitment and dedication of the staff to the care and welfare of all pupils is first class and I am particularly pleased this was recognised by the inspectors.

“I am also happy that the quality of pupils’ learning, the respect between pupils and staff and the courteous and co-operative pupils were highlighted by the inspection.

“The children are so enthusiastic and well-mannered and are a credit to High Blantyre Primary School.

“Our wide range of after-school clubs have been extremely successful and the inspectors noted that our approaches in celebrating these achievements raises pupils’ self-esteem and motivation to succeed.

“I was also delighted that the quality of support to pupils with autism spectrum disorder was praised.

“The new school building provides a wonderful learning environment for pupils and staff and this was also picked up on by the Inspectors.

“We also receive tremendous support from all parents, guardians and the wider school community and I believe everyone is delighted with the school and its achievements.”