Leadership, learning and teaching have been praised at Queen Margaret Academy in Ayr. A more consistent approach to leadership and the 'significant impact' of a new head teacher are the key findings in a report from Education Scotland published today (19 March).
In January 2019, a team of inspectors from Education Scotland visited the school to review progress following a previous inspection, which had set out a number of areas for improvement. During their visit, inspectors talked to parents, young people, and staff to gather evidence to support their findings.
The inspection team said that progress had been made in the following areas:
The new head teacher and her newly formed leadership team have already established a very clear vision to take the school forward.Learning and teaching continues to improve since the last inspection and young people feel more listened to.
Parents and young people recognise the significant impact of the new head teacher, and leadership team.Plans are in place to provide opportunities for parents and carers to take a more active role in school improvement.
The new House system has supported a strengthened sense of community and there is a new buddy system.A considerable number of staff have volunteered to support S4 learners with one to one support on learning and wellbeing as part of a pilot scheme.
Further improvement is still required in the following areas:
More work is needed to develop the curriculum to reflect the needs, skills and interests of all learners.Staff should evaluate how well they involve young people in discussing their progress and attainment.Further work is needed to ensure young people have enough opportunities to discuss their wellbeing, learning and achievement.
Councillor William Grant, Children and Young People Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: "This is a really good report and I'm pleased the hard work of the whole staff and school community has been recognised.
involved – it is onwards and upwards for QMA".
Inspectors are confident that significant progress has been made and are not planning any more visits in connection with this inspection.
The full report can be found on the Education Scotland websiteExternal link .
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