USE: IMMEDIATE                                                     ISSUE DATE: TUESDAY 29 MARCH 2005

Park Primary School, Invergordon, has been praised in a recently published report by HM Inspectors. Special mention was made of the care and support of pupils provided by the staff, the good manners and conscientious attitudes of pupils and the productive partnership with parents and the community.

The hard work and commitment of the head teacher, Mrs Eleanor Neil, was also highlighted. Mrs Neil said: "The HMI visit to the school was a worthwhile experience and I am very pleased with the many positive aspects in the report. Staff, parents and pupils have worked extremely hard to improve the school and it is good to see this team effort being acknowledged. The report has also assisted us in on focusing on areas for improvement which will enable us to go from strength to strength."

The report went on to praise the overall quality of the curriculum and the pace of learning. It pointed to the success pupils had achieved in a broad range of activities, including work with senior citizens and the local hospital and community. Attainment was described as good, with pupils achieving appropriate national levels in English and mathematics.

All staff knew the pupils very well and were attentive to their needs. They had developed positive relationships with the pupils and ensured they were happy and secure. A very high level of support was provided for those pupils experiencing difficulties in aspects of their learning and the quality of input from teaching staff was acknowledged. The positive role of parents and their contribution to school activities and fund-raising were also recognised.

The report makes recommendations about improving information and communications technology skills, guidance to teachers on curricular programmes, the consistency of learning and teaching and monitoring classroom practice. The Education Authority has been directed to improve certain aspects of the accommodation in the 241-pupil school. A plan is in the process of being drawn up to address the inspectors’ recommendations.

-ENDS-

Date Last updated : 31/03/05