Inspectors highlight significant improvements at Bressay’s school

There have been significant improvements at Bressay Primary School and Nursery Class in the past year, according to an inspector who paid a follow-up visit after an earlier assessment highlighted several concerns.

HM Inspector David Martin attended the school in August and found particular strengths to be the courteous, well-behaved pupils, improved levels of attaintment and the leadership of the head teacher and support provided by the hardworking and caring staff.

In his report published on Tuesday, he said: “Children now have regular opportunities to work together. They are very proud of their school and their achievements. Tasks, activities and resources are now much better matched to most children’s needs and children are interested and enthusiastic in lessons.

“Staff in the nursery and primary gave clear explanations. They are skilled at questioning and share the purposes of lessons with children. Attainment is now better in English language and mathematics. More children are achieving appropriate national levels and more are achieving these levels earlier than would normally be expected.”

However, he said more remained to be done to ensure that staff monitor and evaluate children’s attainment and progress more effectively. A further follow-up visit is to be paid next year.