Curriculum

Extract from HMIe Report (June 2007)

The overall quality of the curriculum was very good. The school had made a number of appropriate changes to the curriculum for the current session, including alternative provision at S1/S2 and a revised structure of the school day. An innovative S1 "challenge course" had also been introduced. These changes had involved appropriate consultation with parents, staff and some pupils. Particular features of the curriculum included the following.

  • Curriculum links with the associated primary schools required further development, to ensure that pupils had well-planned continuity in their learning.
  • The school made provision for religious education in the core curriculum from S1 to S5 and as an option in S6.
  • At S1/S2, the school had improved access for pupils to information and communications technology (ICT) and made effective use of curriculum flexibility to improve attainment in English and mathematics. A well organised S1 "challenge" course was helping pupils to work in teams and across subject boundaries.
  • At S3/S4, a small number of pupils experienced an alternative curriculum including vocational aspects which helped to develop their practical skills and prepare for further education on leaving school. College links needed further development. National Qualification (NQ) courses, particularly in biology, geography and home economics, were being used at S3/S4 to meet the needs of all pupils and provide better progression routes for some subjects to S5.
  • At S5/S6, pupils could choose from a wide range of Intermediate, Higher and Advanced Higher courses which allowed them to progress effectively from their S4 subjects. Work experience in S4, certificated Working with Others at S5 and a citizenship experience at S6 helped develop pupils’ self-confidence and their skills for employment.
  • The school was making progress towards meeting national expectations for physical education. However, there was no core physical education at S5.
  • The school provided a considerable range of events and activities in the extended curriculum to broaden achievements in citizenship, enterprise, international education and health.
  • The personal, social and health education (PSHE) programme covered S1 to S6 and benefited from a range of outside speakers. Pupils received effective curricular and vocational guidance which helped them make appropriate course choices.