Inspectors impressed by Cunningsburgh school and nursery after return visit

CUNNINGSBURGH Primary School has been praised by inspectors following a return visit to check on its progress.

Education Scotland made the follow-up visit in November following an inspection report in September 2018 which highlighted a number of areas for improvement.

Inspectors said following their return that “senior leaders and staff have taken forward a programme of substantial development, especially in the nursery class”.

“Practitioners in the nursery class, along with the headteacher, have brought about significant change. This includes approaches used to support children to learn and the quality of the learning environment,” the letter says.

The nursery has since undergone refurbishment as the council takes part in the national expansion of free early learning and childcare hours.

Levels of engagement and commitment to tasks by children have also increased considerably at Cunningsburgh, according to the inspectors.

It also notes how staff have developed their professional skills, leading to a “deeper professional knowledge and confidence”.

Shetland Islands Council (SIC) said their practice, and the experience of the inspection process, is now being shared across the local authority.

Chairman of the SIC’s education and families committee councillor George Smith said: “I am extremely pleased to see this follow-up report, and the positive comments inspectors have made on the work that has been done in Cunningsburgh.

“This is testament to the hard work and commitment from staff at all levels, both at the school and in the wider service.”