Lhanbryde Primary School follow-up inspection report published
Education Scotland inspectors have praised Lhanbryde Primary School for making positive progress since their initial inspection in November 2023.
The original inspection highlighted several areas for improvement, which Lhanbryde Primary School and Moray Council’s education officers have been working on since.
The follow-up report from October 2024 highlights how senior leaders and staff have expanded the curriculum, ensuring all pupils receive a broad general education. Teachers effectively utilise Curriculum for Excellence learning pathways and involve pupils in planning their learning. Additionally, the introduction of German alongside French and Scots’ language learning has broadened pupils’ experiences.
The school has also enhanced outdoor learning opportunities, particularly in mathematics, and strengthened its health and wellbeing curriculum. Pupils now participate in activities such as cooking and learning about healthy lifestyles. Plans for a dedicated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning space are also progressing.
Pupil attainment has shown clear improvement. From P1 to P4, there has been notable progress in reading, listening, and talking, while P4 to P7 students have improved in reading, writing, numeracy, and mathematics. Teachers use assessments effectively to track progress and provide targeted support through increased progress meetings and interventions, helping most pupils meet their learning goals.
The school has made notable progress in tracking and celebrating wider achievements. Pupils share their participation in activities through surveys, and teachers use ‘Bee our Best’ hives to visually recognise accomplishments. Initiatives such as ‘Phenomenal Friday’ and ‘Star Reader’ certificates celebrate pupil successes.
Children’s ambition in striving to achieve well, both within the classroom and beyond the school day, is increasing. Inspectors say staff should continue to develop this area of work and extend further its use of partners, both locally and nationally.
Lhanbryde Primary School’s Acting Head Teacher, Sandra Dean, said: “I’m incredibly proud of our staff, pupils, and community for their dedication and hard work, which have been pivotal in achieving these improvements. The progress we’ve made reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive, engaging, and high-achieving learning environment for every child. We’re excited to continue building on these successes and striving for excellence in all areas of school life.”
Moray Council’s Head of Education, Vivienne Cross, commented: “We’re delighted to see Lhanbryde Primary’s progress recognised, particularly their efforts to foster a positive learning environment and provide enriching educational experiences. We fully support their ongoing work to refine learning, teaching, and assessment practices.”
The full report can be found on Education Scotland’s website.