Strong Paisley Grammar school inspection report

Education Scotland published its inspection findings today (Tuesday 12 February 2019) which highlights the positive relationships between staff and pupils.

Learning, teaching and assessment and raising attainment and achievement were all evaluated as ‘good’ in the glowing report which follows a visit to the school in November.

The report also praised headteacher Janice Levens and the school’s senior team for having a clear sense of direction and priorities.

Welcoming the report findings, Janice Levens said: “We are very pleased with the report and would like to thank all of those involved in the work of the school – our pupils, staff, parents and partners. It recognises the very positive relationships we have with pupils and the work we do to provide our pupils with the best possible learning experience.

“Our values are important to us and the report notes the positive inroads we have made in making these part of our school culture, together with improvements in attainment and the work to develop our curriculum to provide every opportunity for pupils to move onto a positive destination. Our aim is to continue improving our work and improving the outcomes for the young people of Paisley Grammar School.”

During their visit, the inspection team talked to pupils, parents and school staff and the report gives recognition to the important progress being made in establishing the school values and celebrating the school’s diverse community.

Staff working in the flexible learning resource were also recognised for their efforts in providing a safe and nurturing environment which is re-engaging young people in learning.

Inspectors encouraged the school to continue its focus on offering high-quality learning and to further develop its assessment process, so pupils are fully aware of their strengths and areas for improvement.

Third Year pupil Nathan said: “I like the wide range of opportunities. In third-year we have two periods for wider achievement where you can do different activities that you might not normally get, such as photography or cooking.”

Sixth Year pupil Emily added: “I like how diverse the school is, there’s many people with different backgrounds and cultures. We’ve had a few world food festivals and a modern language day so I like how they embrace the many cultures the school has.”

Roslyn Woodland is chair of Paisley Grammar School’s Parent Teacher Council which has made excellent progress in strengthening the relationship between school staff, parents and family members.

She said: “Paisley Grammar School Parent Council is delighted that the school has gained recognition for the continuous improvement that Janice Levens, her senior management team and staff have achieved over the last few years. This positive report will no doubt help to further encourage shared values, the building of relationships and the continued equity for all of its young people.”

Schools across Renfrewshire continue to deliver high-quality learning and teaching, with last summer’s exam results seeing more S5 pupils gaining five or more Highers and more S4 pupils achieving three or more National 5s than in 2017.

Education and Children’s Services convener, Councillor Jim Paterson, said: “I would like to extend my congratulations to Headteacher Janice Levens and to all staff at Paisley Grammar for the fantastic work they are doing, which is reflected in this strong inspection report.

“Pupils and parents at Paisley Grammar will rightly be proud of its findings, recognising the importance the school has placed on fostering positive relationships between staff and pupils, which helps young people at the school to develop their confidence and skills.

“We are ambitious for all children and young people in Renfrewshire and will do all we can to give them the best start in life so they can reach their full potential.”