Inspectors have praised a village school for high levels of attainment and outstanding leadership.
Education Scotland carried out an inspection and review at Gartocharn Primary School and nursery class recently.
They noted a number of key strengths including headteacher John McDonald’s outstanding leadership and staff’s highly effective teamwork in leading school improvement and improving outcomes for children.
Staff were also praised for delivering well-planned outdoor activities and outstanding learning experiences, which children benefit from.
Inspectors were full of praise for the school’s “confident and articulate children who engage very well in their learning.”
They were further described as “curious, independent learners whose behaviour is exemplary”.
Children’s high levels of attainment in the primary stages were also noted.
The inspection team say they discussed with the headteacher and a representative from West Dunbartonshire Council about taking forward their improvement priorities as outlined in the improvement plan.
A spokesperson for Education Scotland said: “We are confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve and so we will make no more visits in connection with this inspection.
“West Dunbartonshire Council will inform parents/carers about the school’s progress as part of its arrangements for reporting on the quality of its schools.”
Education chief Laura Mason said: “Congratulations to everyone at Gartocharn Primary School on this excellent report. This highlights the strong teamwork within the school and its community to ensure each child is given the guidance, support, and confidence to grow and achieve at school.
“I am pleased to hear that both staff and pupils show a great deal of kindness, respect and compassion for each other, and that staff are continuing to put pupils’ attainment and wellbeing at the forefront of everything they do.”
Education convener, Councillor Karen Conaghan, added: “I am absolutely delighted to see the excellent work by students and dedication of our staff recognised in this very positive report.
“The inspectors very clearly recognised the fantastic job being carried out by the headteacher and his staff. Their enthusiasm and dedication to the quality of their children’s education, both inside and outside the school building, is to be commended.”
