Inspectors praise St Peter’s Primary School progress

STAFF at St Peter’s Primary School in Buckie have been praised by inspectors from Education Scotland.

After their visit to the school last February, the team returned recently to assess the progress made since then.

In the wake of their original visit, inspectors highlighted a number of areas which needed more work. These included improving the quality of learning and teaching, improving approaches to planning of learning, teaching and assessment and improving leadership across the school.

There was praise for the school’s "welcoming, nurturing and caring ethos".

In their follow-up report, the inspectors found there has been a positive change in how well the school helps children learn and understand the school values.

They also emphasise that the staff have successfully reintroduced pupil leadership opportunities and children are encouraged to talk more about their learning.

The document goes on to praise the caring and respectful relationships of staff and children across the school that help support children to be ready to engage well in learning. The team said that St Peter’s RC Primary School are being encouraged to review assessment approaches to ensure their monitoring and tracking fully reflects children’s skills and knowledge.

Additionally, teachers should continue to engage in a variety of learning activities which encourage children to think for themselves and accelerate their progress.

Overall, the inspectors found that school has made progress since the original inspection. They will continue to liaise with Moray Council regarding these improvements and will return for a follow up inspection within the year.

Acting head teacher of St Peter’s RC Primary School, Maureen Byrne, said: “I’m incredibly proud of all the staff and children who help make St Peter’s such a caring and welcoming school.

“It’s encouraging seeing the progress we have made so far, and I know everyone is dedicated to ensuring these improvements continue.”

Moray Council’s Chief Education Officer, Vivienne Cross, added: “We’re pleased to see the progress the school has made since the previous inspection and the positive impact it’s having on the children’s learning and attainment.

“The Quality Improvement Officer and Primary Advisor linked with the school will continue to ensure further progress on these improvements areas are made.”

The full letter can be found on Education Scotland's website.