The Nicolson Institute

Overview

The inspection found that most staff foster positive, caring relationships and effectively motivate learners through praise. While the school demonstrates strength in supporting post-school destinations and Gàidhlig Medium Education, the evaluations for learning, teaching and assessment and raising attainment and achievement were both judged as ‘satisfactory’.

Strengths

• Most staff foster positive, caring relationships with young people and use praise effectively to motivate learners.
• Staff are increasing ambition for Gàidhlig, resulting in most young people in Gàidhlig Medium Education leaving as confident and successful speakers.
• Almost all young people are supported effectively to plan and achieve positive post-school destinations through effective partnership working.

Areas to improve

• Staff should continue to raise attainment, specifically in numeracy and the quality of passes in National Qualifications.
• Senior leaders and teachers should develop a shared understanding of high-quality learning, teaching and assessment, including planning for those requiring additional support.
• Senior leaders should plan strategically to increase staffing, professional learning and technology use to extend learning and immersion for Gàidhlig.
• As a matter of urgency, senior leaders must improve the quality of education for young people in the enhanced provision, ensuring they access relevant and well-planned experiences.

Safeguarding

The report does not contain specific statements regarding safeguarding arrangements or outcomes.