The nurturing approach to learning at Neilston Primary School has been commended by inspectors.
Education Scotland officials branded the school “good” and “very good” across all areas of learning following an unannounced visit to the High Street establishment.
A report stated they found enthusiastic and confident children who feel valued and supported.
The school was assessed across four key categories including leadership; learning, teaching and assessment; wellbeing, equality and inclusion; and raising attainment.
Inspectors graded the school as good across three areas, earning a very good in the wellbeing, equality and inclusion assessment.
In particular, staff were commended for their efforts to help children recover from the Covid-19 pandemic both emotionally and in their learning.
The inspectors said: “All staff focus on closing the gaps in children’s learning caused by the poverty related attainment gap, or, as a result of Covid-19.
“Effective plans are in place to provide targeted support to groups and individuals by employing additional staff using the pupil equity fund (PEF).”
They added: “Parents appreciate the support staff provide to improve children’s wellbeing and, in particular, the support they provided during Covid-19.”
The head teacher was also commended for creating “a strong culture of teamwork amongst staff” who are committed to helping each other develop and improve their work.
The role of the school within the community was also highlighted as an area of success.
The report added: “Overall, children’s attainment in literacy and English and numeracy and mathematics is good.
“Senior leaders with pastoral responsibilities work very effectively with teachers, support staff and partner agencies to identify children who have barriers to learning.
“They monitor their progress and wellbeing rigorously, which is helping to ensure children’s needs are met well. Senior leaders monitor attendance closely. They take early action to prevent non-attendance becoming a barrier to learning.”
However, inspectors also identified areas of improvement.
This included developing clearer strategies to lead the direction and pace of school improvement activities, with a focus on improving learning outcomes for children.
Staff should also, the inspection report suggests, continue to develop consistent approaches to learning, teaching and assessment to ensure that learning is set at the right level of difficulty for all children.
Explaining it is confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve, Education Scotland said it has no plans to make any further visits to Neilston Primary in relation these findings.
Don't miss the latest headlines from around Renfrewshire. Sign up to our newsletters here
