LEARNING standards at Newtown Primary School and Nursery class have been rated ‘satisfactory’ by Education Scotland.

Inspectors identified several strengths in the work of both the school and nursery but also identified areas for improvement, which they discussed with the headteacher and a representative with Scottish Borders Council.

It was found that children are confident and proud of their school. They enjoy positive relationships across the school and nursery, supported by staff who are committed to inclusion and well-being.

The approaches staff in the primary school take to develop children’s reading skills promote a culture of reading for enjoyment. They motivate children successfully in reading which is starting to impact positively on children’s attainment.

Staff have a common approach to sharing with children how they will be successful in their learning. As a result, children confidently identify their success and next steps, inspectors found.

But the report also identifies that senior leaders and staff should improve how data and other information are used to ensure all children make the best possible progress.

This should support staff to identify which interventions are making the biggest differences.

Staff also need to continue to improve the quality of learning and teaching across the school and nursery. In doing so, they should set high expectations, continue to raise standards and improve attainment further.

Additionally, staff should increase opportunities for children to lead their own learning as well as wider aspects of the work of the school.

Interim headteacher Emma Sowerby said :“I am looking forward to working with the school to build on the strengths identified and work with the team to deliver on the clear direction this report provides.

“Our plan for working together as a strong and committed team has prioritised the areas and themes highlighted for improvement. It is pleasing to see that the recent work undertaken to develop skills in reading has been recognised and that children are supported to know how to be successful learners by an inclusive, aspirational and welcoming staff team.”

On behalf of Newtown Primary School Friend and Family Association, Kirsty White added: “As a member of the Friends and Family Association of Newtown Primary School, I am happy with the HMI report and feel it accurately reflects the strengths of the school along with areas of improvement. The report highlights children are confident and happy in their school and supported by committed staff.”

Inspectors are confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve and will make no more visits in connection with this inspection.