Inspectors praise Stonehouse Primary

Stonehouse Primary School and nursery class received a glowing report following an Education Scotland Inspectorate visit.

Among the key strengths of the school, inspectors found motivated, enthusiastic children who have a very positive attitude to learning.

They also praised the nurturing, inclusive ethos and the care and support for children.

Staff were also praised for working together to improve children’s learning experiences.

The inspectorate also found strong leadership and direction provided by the headteacher and her senior team.

Discussions took place with staff and South Lanarkshire Council how they might continue to improve the school and nursery class.

It was agreed to continue to use self-evaluation to improve children’s progress and achievement, giving a greater focus to the nursery.

The school should continue to develop the curriculum to provide relevant and motivating learning for all children.

During the visit, inspectors talked to parents and children and worked closely with the headteacher and staff.

The headteacher shared the school’s successes and priorities for improvement.

Particular aspects of the school’s recent work, including the use of Scots as a motivating context for learning and how the school has strengthened links with the community also came under scrutiny.

The report says: “Children learn and achieve well in Stonehouse Primary School. Across the school, children are highly motivated and enjoy their learning.

“The school’s nurturing,inclusive ethos provides a very positive atmosphere for learning.

“Children benefit from caring and supportive relationships with staff and each other.

“In the nursery, children enjoy a range of learning activities and can choose where they want to play. Most enjoy spending time outdoors creating mud cakes and pies in the mud kitchen.”

The report states that in the primary stages, children are confident that staff know them well. Almost all children feel safe and cared for in school. They like the ‘helping hand’ system that ensures they have an adult in school they can speak to if they are about something.

Inspectors concluded that as a result of this visit, there are no requirements and two recommendations.

“We are satisfied with the quality of provision.

“We are confident that the school’s self-evaluation processes are leading to improvements,” they said.

“As a result, we will make no further visits in connection with this inspection.”

Anne Donaldson, head of education at South Lanarkshire Council, said: “This is an excellent report that reflects the high standards of education and care at Stonehouse Primary School, as well as their ethos of continual improvement.

“Well done to the head teacher and her team – they should all be very proud of this report.” upset or worried overall