Councillors have applauded staff and pupils at Connolly Campus School in Blackburn for the positive response during tough times in education.
An inspection carried out by Education Scotland earlier this year found the school to be very good.
West Lothian Council’s Education Quality Assurance Committee heard the school had won top marks for the way it has developed its curriculum by working with partners.
At the time of the inspection, there were 20 primary aged children on the school roll. The Education Placement Group places children at the school who have social and emotional additional support needs.
The report praised Headteacher Andrew Millar and his staff saying: “The highly effective headteacher provides a clear vision and direction for school improvement. The fresh and renewed approach to the leadership of change has led to significant progress.
“The aspirational vision and aims focus on meeting the complex and individual needs of children. He is ably supported by the depute headteacher and wider leadership team. “
The report also highlighted: “Positive relationships with adults support children with their emotional development. Children are now more able to self-regulate and interact in more pro-social ways. The school has also been very successful in reducing incidents of challenging behaviour year on year.”
Mr Millar highlighted the success of developing outdoor learning including working on gardening skills in poly tunnels and dog therapy.
The committe heard that the school has also worked hard to build relationshipswith the community and with its parents.
The report said: “ There is evidence that this success is improving community partnerships, such as with local resources and businesses. This is having a positive impact on the development of children’s citizenship skills and on their knowledge about the world of work. A wide range of partners are fully involved in supporting the delivery of the school’s curriculum.”
Councillor Chris Horne said: “The best ideas have come from the ground up.”
Mr Millar said: “I am delighted with the progress our school is making and that of our Inclusion and Wellbeing Service. The inspection report captures the difference our staff team at Connolly is making to the lives of our children and we are all very proud of their individual successes.
“We are seeing improved outcomes for our learners at all stages and we are committed to continuing this great work and supporting all our children to continue to thrive.”
