Praise for Balcurvie pupils' attitudes in school inspection report

A number of other key strengths were identified, including staff who work together to improve the school and children’s awareness of eco issues and the environment.

During the inspection, staff from the care inspectorate spoke to both children and parents, and worked closely with the head teacher and teaching staff to gain an insight into daily life at the school.

While inspectors found many key strengths, they did identify a need for greater consistency in the quality of teaching and learning across all classes, with teachers being asked to ensure the intentions of lessons are explained clearly and that children understand fully what they have to do to be successful.

Headteacher Tracey McDougall was also praised in the report for creating a positive school ethos.

She said: “I am delighted that the inspection team has recognised the supportive and nurturing ethos we have worked hard to create.

“They also noted how committed the great staff team are in their drive to make improvements in learning and teaching.

“We are very proud of our children who were commended for their respectful attitude towards each other.

“Visitors to our school always comment on the friendly and welcoming atmosphere so we are pleased that the team recognised this too. We are happy that the team found our family learning programme to be a key strength.

Tracey added: “We are now focusing on the areas which we need to address and I am confident that the committed team at Balcurvie will make the necessary improvements for our learners.

“We have already begun to address some of the recommendations and as a result of the inspection, we have a very clear picture of what we need to do to ensure we continue our journey of improvement and get it right for all our learners.”