Scottish Catholic Observer

A CATHOLIC primary school in one of the most deprived areas in the country has been given an excellent report from Education Scotland.

Pupils and staff from St Roch’s primary school in Royston, Glasgow, are celebrating after their school, which has a special unit for pupils who have hearing impairments, was awarded the top rating of ‘excellent’ for the way in which it met the needs of pupils.

It was judged to be ‘very good’ for improvements in performance, for learners’ experiences and for the curriculum on offer to pupils.

The inspectors found a number of key strengths in the school.

Teaching staff were praised for their commitment, and pupils for their enthusiasm for learning and high levels of achievement.

The children were also commended for being courteous and for good behaviour generally.

The report highlights that the children’s sense of community extends beyond their own area, which is reflected in the fact that P7 pupils received Pope Francis awards in recognition of their positive contribution to members of their local and wider community.

St Roch’s teacher Clare Fodey said the report showed ‘once again, I think, how good our Catholic primary schools are.’

Bill Geddes, HM inspector, reported that he was ‘satisfied with the overall quality of provision’ at the school.

He said he was confident that the school’s self-evaluation processes were leading to improvements.

—This story ran in full in the October 7 edition print of the SCO, available in parishes.