Kirkshaws Primary School

Overview

The inspection found "strong, positive relationships" creating "calm, nurturing learning environments" where children are "polite, happy, respectful" and "proud of their school." While the new headteacher provides "clear direction" that is beginning to improve practice, Education Scotland rated primary learning and teaching as "satisfactory," and the Care Inspectorate rated nursery care as "adequate" with specific areas for improvement.

Strengths

• "Strong, positive relationships between staff, children and families" fostering a supportive atmosphere.
• Children who are "polite, happy, respectful" and "engage well with their learning."
• "Clear direction provided by the new headteacher" improving approaches to learning and assessment.
• Nursery leadership rated as "good," with "play and learning" also rated "good."

Areas to improve

• Nursery and P1 staff should "plan learning experiences that promote children’s independence, curiosity and creativity."
• Primary staff should "provide more opportunities for children to take a lead in their own learning."
• Senior leaders should "continue to develop approaches to assessing and monitoring children’s learning" to raise attainment.
• The nursery must improve "mealtime experiences," review "medication systems," and enhance "measures to minimise the risk of spread of infection."

Safeguarding

The report notes that "no requirements were made" by the Care Inspectorate, though it identifies specific improvements needed for medication safety and infection control to ensure children receive care in a "safe environment."