Double delight as St Ninian's awarded for 'excellence'

Pupils and staff at St Ninian's Primary School and Nursery in Livingston are celebrating an excellent report from Education Scotland Inspectors, writes West Lothian News.

The school was awarded the highest rating of 'excellent' in two categories - 'leadership of change' and 'ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion'.

Since 2017, less than one per cent of primary school inspection evaluations have received an 'excellent'.

Headteacher Lisamaria Purdie said: "The whole school community is absolutely delighted to have received such glowing feedback.

"Across both the school and nursery settings, our incredibly talented staff teams work tirelessly to provide a setting where our children are excited to learn and develop.

"The hard work never stops and we will continue to reflect on our approach to ensure that we continue to deliver the best possible learning experience for children and families."

This report reflects the magnificent efforts of all staff, from the schools headteacher and leadership team through to nursery leaders and support staff.

Pupils were noted as eager learners as a result of high-quality teaching provided by staff who continually reflect and develop their practice.

Staff were also praised for their understanding of inclusive practices, specifically around the delivery of purposeful and realistic experiences for children, including those with additional support needs and for the innovative support provided to families.

Archbishop Leo Cushley said: “St Ninian’s has a faith-filled and positive learning environment. Lisamaria Purdie and her staff strive for excellence in teaching so this is a deserved evaluation that will be welcomed by parents and the wider school community.”

The full report can be accessed via the Education Scotland website here.

St Columba's pupils celebrate success!

Pupils at St Columba's High School in Dunfermline have been recognised for their "commitment and hard work" at a special end of term event.

The S1-S3 pupils from the school's three houses - Mandela, Romero and Teresa - were given awards at the school's Celebrating Success Ceremony.

Archbishop Leo Cushley was guest of honour and told pupils: "Receiving awards for achievements is a lovely thing.

"But it also means that much is now expected of you.

"We now hope and look forward to you achieving your goals, so that you in turn you will take up your duty to help build a better, safer, happier society for everyone."

He earlier enjoyed a sit-down session with senior pupils, to find out more about their future plans while discussing his own life in the priesthood and beyond.

Headteacher Kevin O'Connor said: "We are very happy to welcome Archbishop Cushley to St Columba's, celebrating 50 years of the school building in Dunfermline, and particularly delighted for His Grace to share in the achievements of our young people who have shown their commitment and hard work and who have been part of the St Columba's ethos to achieve their best."

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Archbishop Cushley at the Celebrating Success Cermony, St Columba's High School

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