Gretna School

Overview

The inspection found that staff work effectively to create a "nurturing, inclusive ethos" where children are "polite, happy and enthusiastic." However, the report concludes that the school and nursery "need more time to make the necessary improvements," with a further inspection planned within one year.

Strengths

• Staff foster "warm, respectful relationships" that support learning in a "calm and positive environment."
• Children "enjoy learning" and are "keen to share and celebrate their successes and achievements."
• There is a developing understanding of children’s rights, helping pupils feel safe and develop as "responsible, global citizens."
• Senior leaders collaborate well with partners to link learning with "skills for life and work" and encourage ambition.

Areas to improve

• Senior leaders should strengthen approaches to leading change by involving staff, children, and parents more fully.
• Staff must strengthen learning, teaching, and assessment to ensure effective planning for all children, including those requiring additional support.
• The curriculum needs development to ensure "progressive learning across all curriculum areas" and better support for wellbeing needs.
• Leaders and teachers should continue to raise attainment in literacy and numeracy for all children.

Safeguarding

The report states that staff support children to "feel safe" through a developing understanding of children’s rights and a nurturing ethos.