Two Inverclyde schools receive positive inspection reports

St Stephen’s High School in Port Glasgow received a visit from Education Scotland in February, with Gourock’s St Columba’s also being inspected the following month.

Reports published today saw the headteachers of both schools praised for their leadership.

St Columba’s received ‘very good’ ratings for its learning, teaching and assessment, as well as its raising of attainment and achievements.

The report noted that its headteacher has worked staff and the school community to create a ‘positive, nurturing and inclusive climate for learning’.

St Columba's High School (Image: Newsquest)

Inspectors said staff knew the school’s young people and their individual needs very well, with ‘almost all’ pupils requiring additional support with their learning being well supported to make appropriate progress in class.

The report stated: “The leadership of learning and teaching across the school is very strong. Approaches to ensuring high-quality learning, teaching and assessment across the school are underpinned by a strong ambition for all young people to achieve their best.

“These approaches are also supported by a highly strategic and collegiate culture within the school, including a focus on creativity in learning and very thorough self-evaluation processes.

“This collaborative culture is valued by staff and is improving the learning experiences of young people.”

In a letter to parents, Graeme Brown of HM Inspectorate said the school should continue to build on ‘highly effective practice’.

St Stephen’s High School was assessed across four categories and received ‘good’ ratings for its leadership of change, learning, teaching and assessment, and raising attainment.

Its work to ensure wellbeing, equality and inclusion was rated ‘satisfactory’.

The leadership provided by the school’s headteacher was praised by inspectors, who noted that he is ‘held in high regard by staff, learners and parents’.

The report states: “Since coming into post, he has led a number of important developments across the school which have resulted in positive impact for young people.

“The school leadership team is benefiting from clearer direction and leadership and now holds key strategic responsibilities which support the implementation of areas of focus within the school improvement plan.”

Inspectors said young people ‘appreciate and value’ individual support and care from guidance staff, but noted that at times some feel they have ‘limited opportunities’ to discuss their wellbeing, learning and achievements.

Writing to parents and carers, Teri McIntosh of HM Inspectorate said: “Young people have a strong sense of belonging and feel valued and included in the life and work of the school.

“They benefit from nurturing, positive and respectful relationships with their teachers and peers based on Gospel values.

“Senior leaders and pupil support teachers should ensure they support young people better to improve their wellbeing.

“This should also include strengthening approaches to support planning to ensure that young people meet their personal targets.”