Schools shortlisted for Scottish awards
Eight Stirling schools – the highest number of any local authority in Scotland – have been selected as finalists in this year’s Scottish Education Awards.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Glasgow tonight (Wednesday).
Stirling High is a finalist for learning through technology award and Fallin Primary for raising attainment in literacy.
Both Braehead and Doune Primary Schools are finalists for making languages come alive (primary).
In the‘learning for sustainability category all three entries are from the Stirling area: Kincardine-in Menteith Primary, Fintry and Buchlyvie Primary Schools (joint entry) and Cornton Nursery.
Cornton Nursery has developed part of its grounds into a weaning garden. Staff wanted to develop an outdoor space to explore ‘plant to plate’.
Nursery head Kate O’Neill said: “Children, families, partners and staff work together to achieve our aims of tacking poverty, inequality and making Cornton a safer and better place to grow up in.”
Stirling High was praised for ensuring all young people and staff have access to modern digital technology and have the confidence to use it effectively.
Headteacher Paul Cassidy said: “Staff use technology with confidence, they support each other and are proactive in sharing good practice.
“Young people, in S1 in particular, are more confident and can better articulate their learning. A digital culture is beginning to emerge across the school.”
Fallin Primary’s new literacy hub raised the profile of reading across all classes with children and parents.
Headteacher Yvonne Nicoll said: “All stakeholders have approached the innovations with enthusiasm, creating a real buzz for reading in Fallin.”
At Braehead Primary, French, Spanish, Greek and Mandarin podcasts provide a channel for parents and carers to learn languages with their children.
The school also showcases languages on its Youtube channel and P5 are teaching tour guides and staff at Stirling Castle key phrases in Mandarin. They are also creating a virtual tour of the Castle, information leaflets and maps for Mandarin-speaking visitors.