Top marks for Whiting Bay primary

Whiting Bay Primary School has been given top marks in a new inspection and review conducted by Education Scotland.

The report found that the key strengths of the school were that is has a caring and supportive ethos with a strong focus on wellbeing.

This has continued to be a priority under the leadership of the new head teacher Shirley MacLachlan, the report said.

It continued that positive relationships across the school and its community are a strong feature of the school. This is resulting in children feeling confident, cared for and respected.

Staff were said to plan engaging and motivating activities that are enriching children’s learning experiences. Relevant contexts for learning, outdoor learning and use of local environment provide children with good opportunities to apply and develop their skills.

Approaches to developing children’s skills and interests in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are enriching their experiences and developing their curiosity and ambition.

The school has developed effective partnership working. Staff utilise the skills and talents of parents, community and business partners to support and enhance children’s experiences.

The following areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the headteacher and a representative from North Ayrshire Council:

* Develop approaches to self-evaluation that involve children, parents and partners so that a shared vision for change and improvement drives the work of the school.

* Ensure that learning is matched well to individual children’s needs so that all children make appropriate progress in their learning.

* Improve approaches to assessment and staff’s understanding of national standards to improve attainment for all.

The report concluded: ‘We are confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve and so we will make no more visits in connection with this inspection. Our area lead officer will maintain contact with North Ayrshire Council to monitor the school’s progress. North Ayrshire Council will inform parents/carers about the school’s progress as part of its arrangements for reporting on the quality of its schools.’