Published 01 April 2025
St Mary’s Primary School and Early Learning and Childcare Centre (ELCC) has been rated ‘very good’ in all areas inspected.
Education Scotland inspectors classed the school’s learning, teaching and assessment and raising attainment and achievement as very good. In addition, the ELCC was graded very good for learning, teaching and assessment and securing children’s progress.
The Headteacher was praised for leading and maintaining an aspirational culture and ethos with senior leaders and staff supporting children to achieve high standards and levels of engagement within a nurturing and inclusive culture. Inspectors found children in both the school and ELCC enjoy learning and playing together as they achieve success.
Inspectors praised staff who work well together displaying very strong collaboration in the school and ELCC. Staff engaged in highly effective professional learning and regularly reflect on their practice which is supporting high-quality learning and high levels of attainment.
Inspectors noted the high-quality, creative approaches to play in the ELCC, Primary one and two which is helping to develop children’s curiosity, confidence, creativity, knowledge, skills and attributes.
During the inspection both facilities were praised for having a wide range of high-quality opportunities and experiences that children need to develop skills for learning, life and work which help children to achieve success in different contexts.
Inspectors noted the school’s use of data and processes to monitor children’s progress in learning which help staff to identify and support children’s learning needs and raise attainment in literacy and numeracy.
Councillor Clare Steel, Convener of Educational Services, said: “It was an absolute pleasure to visit the school and pass on my congratulations to the Headteacher and staff in person. The feedback they received as part of this inspection was excellent, and very well deserved.
“I would like to thank the Headteacher and all the staff for their dedication to achieve the best for the children they look after and for ensuring every pupil within their care is nurtured and encouraged to achieve their best.”
Councillor John Millar, Vice Chair of Educational Services, added: “It is clear from the report that the school and ELCC is providing children with a great start to their education. The outcome of this inspection is testament to the consistent commitment and hard work by all involved.”