Islay school in line for top marks at education awards

AN ARGYLL and Bute primary school is in line for top marks after being announced as a finalist in the Scottish Education Awards 2018.

Bowmore Primary School in Islay has been shortlisted for The Gaelic Education award – one of 15 categories in the Scottish Education Awards – and will compete against three other schools, Condorrat Primary School from North Lanarkshire, e-Sgoil from Stornoway and Greenfaulds High School from North Lanarkshire, at the awards ceremony at DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central on Wednesday June 6. This year’s awards attracted a record 400 nominations. The Gaelic Education award recognises early learning and schools that have developed a vibrant and progressive culture of continuous innovation in relation to Gaelic-medium and Gaelic-learner education.

Bowmore Primary School was applauded for its efforts in Gaelic education through providing a provocative, language-rich environment, appropriate for all learners, with one nomination form stating: ‘Continuing to build on our positive ethos, we have a diverse approach in forging strong partnerships with parents and partner Gaelic organisations promoting inclusion and being more visible in the community.’

To reach this stage, Bowmore Primary has already been assessed by a panel of experts and endorsed by Argyll and Bute Council. All finalists will now undergo one final round, a visit from award judges, which will determine the winner.

Run by Media Scotland Events, and sponsored by the Daily Record and Education Scotland, the Scottish Education Awards celebrate the hard work and success which takes place in education establishments throughout Scotland. The achievements of those who dedicate their lives to children and young people in classrooms across the country are recognised through the 15 diverse categories.

David Dick, editor in chief of the Daily Record and Sunday Mail, said: ‘Our schools and education system is full of unsung heroes helping shape Scotland’s future every day. We are delighted to honour such a key part of Scottish society.’

Alan Armstrong, from Education Scotland, added: ‘Education Scotland is delighted to support the Scottish Education Awards. Each year the awards highlight innovative and effective practices taking place across Scotland’s learning establishments. The awards allow us to recognise and celebrate the successes of our children and young people, together with practitioners and all those who support their education.

‘Well done to all finalists. I look forward to meeting them and hearing about their inspirational work at the awards ceremony in June.’