The follow through report from Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Education praised the school, noting the ''very significant rise'' in attainment levels in English language and mathematics.

The report said "almost all young people are now much more engaged and interested in their learning."

Inspectors were also complimentary about staff involvement, a better approach to self-evaluation and the positive impact of the management team.

Derek Allan, rector, said that he was delighted with the report and commended pupils and staff on their hard work.

He said: "I must acknowledge the part played by our young people, who have worked hard to build a better school - they are a credit to their families.

''I urge them to continue to show such commitment. The staff are tremendous and we have worked together to plan and deliver key changes in what we teach, how we teach it and how we judge our school's effectiveness. Their professionalism and dedication have been exemplary."

He added that forthcoming events such as educational trips to Spain, the USA, France and an expedition to Kenya, were an example of the kind of activities the school offered that develop life skills.

He said: "We've made a good start, and there's still lots to do.

''It's a 10 year mission at least to make it the best school around, but I'm here for the long term.

"We think we're good and very good in most areas, but we're working towards excellence.

"I have serious ambitions to make this a first rate school. We have values in the school of respect for self, respect for others and respect for learning.

''These values encourage ambition, teamwork and achievement."

He added: "Staff team work, the fact the kids have bought into the partnership, the richness of experience, the improvement in motivation at the school have all worked together to improve things remarkably since the last report. I think there's a confidence about the kids that probably was lacking before.

"The staff have behaved very professionally they have changed how they do things and also how they evaluate what they are doing.

''They have been bold in the ways they have tried to vary the curriculum.

''That's a feature of the school that we want to keep developing, especially regarding the Curriculum for Excellence. Staff commitment has been great and parental commitment, and commitment from the community has also been great."

Mr Allan added that the school would now concentrate on developing the curriculum to offer more practical experience and encourage learning of personal development skills alongside traditional academic subjects.


And inspectors impressed at Kdy North

A KIRKCALDY primary school has also been praised by inspectors.

HMIe visited Kirkcaldy North Primary in September and reported a number of strengths: including the work done by staff to provide a welcoming environment, children who are proud of their school and enthusiastic about learning, parents' contribution and the school's support for vulnerable youngsters.

Three areas of good practice were also noted – developing a library with children and parents, outside learning in the Discovery Den and Friendship Days to promote health and wellbeing.

In the nursery and primary classes, inspectors saw improvements in line with the Curriculum for Excellence and that the primary curriculum was broad and balanced.

Children enjoying outdoor learning was also highlighted. The report also hailed the work done by staff, parents and children to review the school's vision and aims.

Inspectors reported children feel safe and cared for and staff demonstrate a strong commitment to making sure all children are included.

The school's work with other professionals to support children was also noted along with staff providing a range of clubs outside school hours to build children's self esteem.

Areas for improvement included extending children's skills in reading, maths and problem solving.

Headteacher Carolyn McFarlane said: "We are very pleased with the positive report we have received from HMIe.

''They have recognised the hard work which goes on in the school and our commitment to continuous improvement will allow us to take forward the agreed action points."