Wishaw school praised by inspectors for 'closing poverty attainment gap'

A PRIMARY school in Wishaw has been praised by inspectors for “successfully closing the poverty attainment gap.”

The Education Scotland team rated St Ignatius’ Primary School and Nursery Class ‘very good’ for learning, teaching and assessment and raising attainment and achievement.

Inspectors noted that: “Across the school, children benefit from the positive culture of ambition and ‘can do’ approach that is promoted and nurtured by senior leaders and all staff.”

The report highlighted a number of key strengths, including well-planned and engaging lessons, a culture of mutual respect and trust among staff, children and families, and the "clear focus” of the senior leadership team.

The inspectors also said: “Senior leaders have devised an innovative digital programme to analyse the wide range of information about the progress of children, helping staff to ensure the specific needs of all children are met very effectively.

“There is an improving trend in attainment for both literacy and numeracy across the school.”

Teachers and other staff were praised for frequently “going the extra mile” to provide practical advice and support for families, to ensure that no child misses out.

The report added: “Staff are successfully closing the poverty-related attainment gap. This is based on the clear vision and direction of senior leaders, and the collective efforts of the staff team and valued partners.”

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The school was described as having a “caring ethos” and the inspectors also noted: “Pupil Equity Funding (PEF) is used very carefully to plan the interventions and targeted support necessary to successfully close gaps. This is making a difference for children and families.”

Headteacher Anne Marie Pearson said: “We are extremely proud of the outstanding feedback received from the inspection team.

“I am delighted that the report recognises the dedication, enthusiasm, care and hard work of our whole staff team and highlights the support we receive from our wider school community and parish.

“We will build upon this exceptional feedback and continue to improve St Ignatius’ Primary School for all of our pupils."

Inspectors suggested as areas for improvement that the nursery staff team’s understanding of high quality play and learning should be developed further, and the school should continue with plans to review the remits of staff and managers within the nursery to strengthen arrangements for quality assurance.

Parent Council chairperson Lynsay Mackey said: “We’re bursting with pride that the inspectors have beautifully captured the ethos and essence of the school in this exceptional report.

“The recognition is well deserved and the whole school community is extremely proud.”

Michael McBride, North Lanarkshire’s education convener, said: "This is a very positive report and one all the staff and wider school community at St Ignatius’ can be very pleased with.”

The full report is available on the Education Scotland website.