Irvine's Haysholm School praised for work

Jan 1 2010 by Lex Brown, Irvine Herald

A SPECIALIST Irvine school has been praised for its work in promoting learning both inside and outside the classroom.

Haysholm School – with a roll of just 18 pupils – provides a stimulating learning climate, promoting pupils’ personal and social development and operates a close partnership working with parents and therapists to enrich and support learning.

The school has been told there is no need for a follow-up check following an inspection.

An 11-page report gives the school in Bank Street a clean bill of health and inspectors say there is no need for any follow-up checks.

The report says Haysholm provides education for children and young people between the ages of five to 18, who have additional support needs arising from complex learning difficulties.

It draws pupils from the south area of North Ayrshire.

The inspection – conducted in November last year – highlighted the four strengths of the school.

It also picked out an example of good practice in reducing barriers to learning through partnership working.

The report suggested three minor areas of improvement to drive standards even higher.

Inspectors said: “Pupils participate well in a wide range of learning experiences within an beyond the classroom.

“They enjoy being actively involved in learning and are gaining confidence in carrying out activities and trying new things.

“Staff use appropriate approaches to help them make choices in their learning.

“The pupils are developing an awareness of how well they are doing and respond positively to the feedback they receive from staff.

“Most are developing skills in working with others.”

Staff were praised for their support and encouragement in making pupils feel safe, happy and part of the school community.

It goes on: “At the post 16 stage, young people show confidence and responsible attitudes.

“They contribute very well to the life of the school.”

Head teacher Carol Ramsay said: “I am very pleased with our report. The recommendations support our plans for continual improvement to ensure pupil experiences within the school are of a high quality.”

Education convener John Bell said: “Haysholm caters for children from all parts of North Ayrshire and has strong links with the community.

“This is a good report and highlights the good work carried out by the staff on a day-to-day basis.”