A CARING and supportive ethos - that’s what inspectors said the vibe was like at Whiting Bay Primary School on Arran when they visited earlier this year.

In a report published by Education Scotland this week, the school was found to be satisfactory in three of the four categories looked at with the four being described as good.

The strengths of the school included the staff plan engaging and motivating activities that are enriching children’s learning experiences, approaches to developing children’s skills and interests in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are enriching their experiences and developing their curiosity and ambition and staff utilise the skills and talents of parents, community and business partners to support and enhance children’s experiences.

Areas that the school will look to strengthen include developing approaches to self-evaluation that involve children, parents and partners so that a shared vision for change and improvement drives the work of the school, ensuring that learning is matched well to individual children’s needs so that all children make appropriate progress in their learning and improving approaches to assessment and staff’s understanding of national standards to improve attainment for all.

Head teacher Shirley MacLachlan said: “We are delighted that the report recognises our confident and happy pupils as we know this reflects the hard work we all put in to support and enhance their wellbeing.

“Our focus continues to be the creation of a positive learning environment for all our young people, giving them as many opportunities as possible to learn and achieve. We’re delighted the report recognises the hard work we do to develop their skills and interests in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and in providing interesting and motivating ways for them to learn.

“We will continue to work together to ensure all of our pupils attain and achieve, taking clear direction from the actions identified in the report.”