'Extremely proud': Paisley school praised by inspectors

A PAISLEY primary school has been praised by inspectors following a recent visit.

The Education Scotland team commended Williamsburgh Primary School and Early Learning and Childcare Class in a number of key areas.

The inspectors praised the school’s “highly effective headteacher, who is providing very strong leadership and direction to the work of the school and nursery” and added: “She is supported well by the senior leadership team and is ambitious for all children in the school and nursery.”

The school’s “strong focus on promoting inclusion and diversity” was also highlighted, and the report added: “This is building caring, positive and trusting relationships that are supporting children to feel included and valued in the school and nursery.”

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The report also praised “children who are happy, enthusiastic and confident” and added: “They enjoy learning in school and nursery. They show respect, care and kindness as they learn and play together. Children are very proud of their school and nursery.”

The inspectors said that staff at the school all worked “very well” as a team and added: “They engage well with professional learning and reflect on their practice. Well-considered, engaging approaches to learning and teaching are impacting positively on children’s progress and achievement.”

Headteacher Vhairi Cochrane said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the outcome of the inspection.

“It is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our staff and children, and we are extremely proud of everyone involved.

“The findings highlight the collaborative efforts of our entire school community at Williamsburgh. We are delighted that inspectors recognised the hard work and very high standards in our school and ELCC.

“We are a highly effective team who will continue to provide the best we can for all children.”

Areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the headteacher and a representative from Renfrewshire Council, with the inspectors noting that “senior leaders and practitioners in the nursery should continue to develop the curriculum outdoors to ensure children experience greater breadth in their learning” and “staff in the school should continue to develop systems to track children’s wellbeing…and continue to raise attainment in literacy and numeracy.”

The full report is available on the Education Scotland website.