THE headteacher of Eddleston Primary School has said she is ‘confident’ about the progress pupils have made in their learning after an inspector highlighted a lack of evaluation in certain areas.
Overall, the HM Inspectorate of Education (HMIe) report on the school was very positive.
Headteacher Shirley Bean said: “I am delighted that our enthusiastic pupils and strong community links have been commended.
“I am confident that our children have made good progress with their learning in English language and literacy, mathematics and numeracy. This achievement is down to the hard work, skills and high level of commitment given by our staff to meet the needs of our pupils.”
She added: “The inspectors have clarified our thoughts about where we are doing well and have been very supportive in their suggestions and guidance for how we might approach our identified improvement priorities in the future.”
Inspector Elaine Merrilees stated in her report: “Overall, the school does not yet have a clear enough picture of children’s achievements, particularly in English, mathematics and health and wellbeing.
“Teachers are therefore not able to plan learning which ensures a stronger progression in children’s knowledge, understanding and skills.”
But her report did acknowledge key strengths, including “articulate and enthusiastic children”, “a mutually-supportive staff team” and “productive” community links.
Pam Smellie, chair of the parent council, said she was pleased with the inspector’s report.
“I believe it reflects the fantastic opportunities the pupils have had through community initiatives such as Community Passport and Friday Enterprise sessions for all pupils and pre-schoolers who live in the Eddleston area,” she said.
“As parents, we feel very fortunate to have such a dedicated and hardworking staff who not only support pupils in school but also go out of their way to support the children in the community too.”