East Renfrewshire primary jumping for joy after inspection

Published: 31 January 2025

A primary school in East Renfrewshire is celebrating after getting a glowing report from Education Scotland inspectors.

St Thomas' Primary has gained two 'very good' evaluations in 'Leadership of change' and 'Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion' after the week-long inspection in the Neilston school.

The school also achieved a 'good' evaluation for its performance in 'Raising attainment and achievement' and a 'good' for 'Learning, teaching and assessment'.

Head Teacher Marie Kane, who oversaw the school's move to the new Neilston Learning Campus in March last year, was praised for bringing strength and unity within the school through her effective leadership, which guided the pupils to excellence during such a period of change.

The wider staff team was also recognised by inspectors for the creative approaches they take to supporting children with a range of different learning and welfare needs.

Head Teacher Marie Kane said: 'I am delighted with the outcome of the inspection and the many strengths that are recognised within the report. It has been a busy year for St Thomas' and we feel privileged to be settled in our new environment. The inspection has both validated and strengthened our vision for school improvement and I look forward to working with the staff, pupils and parents to build on this strong foundation and achieve even greater things for St Thomas' in the future.'

The report also outlined that there is a strong focus on children's rights and promoting positive relationships and that children behave well and are polite and respectful to each other, adults and visitors to the school. The curriculum is shaped by the school's values and Catholic ethos.

Some areas for further improvement were identified, which will now be taken forward by the Head Teacher.

Councillor Andrew Anderson, Convener for Education, Equalities, Culture and Leisure, said: 'I am thrilled for St Thomas' Primary to have achieved this amazing inspection report. With the move to the new Neilston Learning Campus, it has been a real period of change for the school and it's wonderful to see how they have adapted and are thriving in their new surroundings. All our schools continue to provide excellent experiences for all and this is yet another example of how our staff go above and beyond to deliver the very best for all our pupils. Well done to all the pupils, staff and wider school community for all you have and continue to achieve.'