Inverclyde primary school rated among best in Scotland by inspectors

A school in Inverclyde has been rated among the best in Scotland by inspectors after achieving rare “excellent” gradings.

Whinhill Primary in Greenock, which also teaches Gaelic, has received top marks from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education in Scotland (HMIE).

Inspectors awarded the school the highest grades across all four of the key assessment areas after an inspection in January, a feat rarely achieved in Scotland.

In a report published on Tuesday, the school has been praised for its leadership in change, learning, teaching and assessment among other achievements.

Inspectors described pupils as “well behaved and articulate” and “highly motivated, engaged in their learning and experience success”.

Head teacher, Liz Ruddy, said: “I’m absolutely delighted with our inspection report and it’s a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the staff who are a joy to work with.

“It’s also a reflection on the hard work of our pupils and the support from their families and the wider Whinhill family.

“Our children are very much at the heart of what we do, not only in terms of teaching and education, but in the decision-making, because they play an active role in how their school is run.

“I am bursting with pride for everyone involved and will enjoy celebrating this incredible achievement with the pupils and staff.”

Michael Roach, Interim Director of Education at Inverclyde Council, said: “The inspection report at Whinhill is a significant achievement for the whole school community.

“The report, which is one of the best ever written about a Scottish school, recognises the exceptional quality of education provided to the pupils, their families and the wider community.

“We are delighted that the excellence we knew to be part of the daily educational offer has been validated and recognised by HMIE.

“Whinhill is a truly comprehensive school, serving the centre of Greenock and this report shows what can be achieved over time through the clear, visionary and inspirational leadership of head teacher Liz Ruddy alongside the dedication and commitment of the whole staff team.

“A key feature of this report, however, is how the pupils themselves are involved in leading their learning and school improvement, to create the highly inclusive and innovate school they attend.

“We are very proud of them all.”

The school celebrated the glowing report with a special assembly on Tuesday morning, featuring balloons and a video screening.