School inspectors have commended staff at Our Lady and St Francis’ Primary School and nursery class in Carfin for supporting children throughout pandemic
They visited the school on Monday 6 December 2021.
The report praised the acting headteacher, senior leaders and staff for “working tirelessly to ensure that children and families have been supported well throughout the pandemic”.
The report continues: “They provided targeted, one-to-one support wherever necessary, that helped all children engage in learning at home.
“Staff made home visits, phone calls and held video meetings to help children feel connected to their school and nursery.
“Teachers and practitioners worked closely with specialist staff and partners to support individual families. During periods of remote learning, senior leaders checked on the quality of children’s learning and the progress they were making.
“This helped staff to plan for children’s next steps when they returned to school buildings. Staff have worked together well to develop new ways of learning and teaching.”
Claire Semple, Acting Head Teacher of Our Lady and St Francis’ Primary School and nursery said: “'We are delighted that the positive and nurturing ethos in our nursery has been recognised by Education Scotland. Our staff work well together to ensure our children reach their potential and it is a great honour to have this acknowledged, particularly through challenging times.”
Councillor Frank McNally, Convener of Education and Families, added: “I’d like to congratulate the entire school community on achieving such a positive inspection report. The collective efforts of everyone associated with the school during the pandemic has been recognised for the support, care and attention provided children over the past two years – well done to pupils, parents and staff at the school.”
The report also found that the school had been using technology to ensure good communication was maintained with parents and pupils.
“Children and staff have embraced the use of digital technology and social media to celebrate children’s achievements and to share their successes with families.”
In addition, the popular ‘Family Fridays’ events which are organised by staff in the nursery to provide a range of motivating outdoor learning activities for children.
They carefully organise these activities so that parents can safely come and observe their child at play outdoors, and chat with staff, before collecting their child.
This has helped to maintain good communication and a sense of partnership between the nursery and families.