HMIe inspection report on Hill of Fearn Primary School
In an extremely positive HMIe inspection of Hill of Fearn Primary the following key strengths were identified:
Her Majesty’s Inspector stated that children learn very well and achieve highly across the school as they are motivated and enthusiastic about learning. The curriculum provides children with a range of appropriate learning activities and participation within these allows pupils to make good progress. HMIe stated that pupils are involved actively in almost all their lessons and take responsibility for many activities. They are able to talk about their learning and, as individuals, know what they need to do to improve. They also noted that, across the school, children are very good at working and learning together.
HMIe commented very favourably on the leadership of the very committed head teacher. They stated that she provides a clear direction for the school and that the staff, including the principal teacher, parents and other partners work together very successfully to ensure that the school continues to improve. Pupils also play their part within the improvement agenda and are able to assume a variety of leadership roles. They have a clear vision for how the school can continue to improve in the future.
The Inspectors made only one recommendation to the school, namely that it should continue to involve children and parents in the development of the curriculum to ensure the design principles of Curriculum for Excellence are embedded in all aspects of learning. They are confident that the school has the capacity to continue to provide a very high quality of education in the future and will make no further visits in connection with this inspection.
Commenting on the report Mrs Eileen Henderson, Head Teacher, said: “I am delighted that the hard work, effectiveness and commitment of pupils, parents and staff has been recognised by HMIe. We are especially pleased with the positive feedback we received on our implementation of the new curriculum. We look forward to working with all stakeholders to continue to develop the curriculum to enhance the learning and achievements of our pupils.”
Chairperson of the Parent Council, John Scott, also commented: “As parents we are obviously delighted with the findings of the recent HMIe report. Our team of teachers and support staff put in a tremendous amount of effort throughout the school year and a report of this quality comes as no great surprise. Our school role is rising year on year and every class has the feel good factor and positive attitude towards learning that we as parents are looking for.”
Councillor Bill Fernie, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Education, Culture and Sport Committee, also stated: “I am delighted that HMIe have recognised the quality practice in Hill of Fearn Primary. The report reflects the very positive learning ethos within the school and the very motivated and enthusiastic pupils and staff, the latter of whom work together very effectively to ensure the best possible experience for their students. The head teacher has provided a strategic direction for the school which has resulted in this highly positive report.”