INSPECTORS SATISFIED WITH IMPROVEMENTS
Written by author on April 30, 2014
HM Inspectors of Education (HMIE) published details of their findings following a visit to Elmbank Special School in Dumfries.
HMIE originally inspected the school in April 2013. They recently visited the school again to see what progress had been made.
Inspectors looked at particular areas that had been identified in the original inspection and also spoke to young people and worked closely with the Headteacher and staff. They found that since the last inspection, the school has changed significantly. Young people’s learning and achievement continue to improve and young people are more positive about learning and benefit from strong relationships with staff.
The curriculum has s stronger focus on promoting health and well-being and developing skills for learning, life and work in real-life situations. Most young people understand what they need to do to keep fit and healthy and most are making good progress in developing their social and emotional well-being. As a result, behaviour has improved, young people concentrate better in class and there have been no exclusions in the last year.
The school now provides short-term support with a view to returning young people to their home school. Regular liaison between subject teachers ain both schools is ensuring a more joined-up approach to meeting the needs of young people across both settings.
Jeff Leaver, Chair of the Education committee, said “providing a good start in life for all our children is a priority for our Council. In the past 12 months, Elmbank have made a number of large and important improvements. The Headteacher and teaching staff have introduced a range of topics to offer young people more choices and to help them make links across subjects. As a result, young people have a better understanding of their health and well-being. There is now greater involvement of young people, parents and partners in identifying ways to further improve learning and teaching. The improvements made by the school have meant that in the past 12 months, the quality of learning and teaching has improved and attendance continues to get better. The school is now well placed to continue to deliver improved outcomes for young people.”
