COUNCIL chiefs have stepped in to support Riverbrae School and Nursery after watchdogs identified several weaknesses, writes Jack Thomson.

Director of Children’s Services Steven Quinn confirmed an action plan has been introduced at the additional support needs school in Linwood after Education Scotland called for improvement.

Inspectors found both the primary and nursery to be weak in their in their leadership of change, while the primary struggled in raising attainment and achievement and the nursery in learning, teaching and assessment.

However, the report did highlight caring and respectful relationships between staff and children, who feel safe, valued and included.

Supported by partners, children and young people were also said to be achieving well in the wider community.

Mr Quinn said: “We recognise the importance of getting it right for every child and meeting the needs of all our children and young people with additional support needs.

“Inspection reports provide us with important insight and this report on progress at Riverbrae highlights the positive relationships between pupils and staff which helps them feel safe, valued and included and the partnership working which is supporting the children and young people’s achievements.

“The report also highlights areas for improvement which the school is firmly focused on addressing and is now implementing a detailed action plan, supported by the central education team.”

The inspection report was brought to the attention of councillors at the recent Education and Children’s Services Policy Board.

Speaking at the board, convener Councillor Jim Paterson said: “Where we are not doing as well as we should, that should be recognised. It was disappointing that this isn’t a positive report.

“Work has already begun to ensure that this time next year when Education Scotland visit we are not in the same position.”

The Gazette: Provost Lorraine Cameron was heartened by the council’s quick intervention in the school.Provost Lorraine Cameron was heartened by the council’s quick intervention in the school.

Mr Quinn said he had hoped some of the areas considered weak by inspectors could have been given a satisfactory grading but added: “We must accept their judgement, they are the experts.

“We accept it when they are very goods and excellents, so we must accept it when they’re not.

“We were aware there were a number of challenges and actions to work on in the school. We had started to work on them but we will now put in further additional supports to make sure we make the progress.”

Provost Lorraine Cameron was heartened by the council’s quick intervention in the school.

She responded: “I’m glad to hear what’s happening and steps are being taken to help the school into a healthier place.

“These are some of the most vulnerable children in our communities and as corporate parents we have a responsibility to them and their families, so we must do all we can to provide excellent education.”

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