Milne’s High follow-up report

Date Added - 03/11/09

A Moray secondary school has enjoyed a turnaround in fortunes since a critical inspection report two years ago. 

Milne’s High in Fochabers was found to have achieved “major improvements” in a follow-up visit by school inspectors. 

Their report, published today, said the school was now well placed to continue to improve. 

The inspectors found that among the school’s particular strengths was the leadership of head teacher Carol Stuart, who took up her post following the 2007 inspection report, and her senior managers. 

Other strengths identified were the high quality of teamwork and the commitment of staff and pupils to improving the school. 

The follow-up report said parents, young people and staff were proud of the school and morale was very high, 

“Expectations of staff and young people have improved greatly,” said the report. “Young people work enthusiastically with staff and enjoy the increased challenge in most lessons. 

“They are set targets for improvement and a number are mentored by volunteer staff. This had led to improved achievement.” 

Inspectors said Mrs Stuart had had a very positive impact on the work of the school and senior managers now had clear roles which allowed them to focus on improving the quality of learning, teaching and achievement. 

“The effective teamwork across the school is increasing the pace of improvement. 

“The school and education authority have achieved major improvements since the inspection of October 2007. The headteacher, along with her senior management team, provides strong leadership and a clear vision. 

“The school is well placed to continue to improve. We will make no further visits in connection with the original inspection.” 

Councillor Jeff Hamilton, chairman of Moray Council’s children and young people’s services committee, said the latest report made for encouraging reading. 

“The inspectors were clearly impressed with the progress that has been made at Milne’s over the last two years or so, and that is thanks to everyone involved with the school. 

“Just like the inspectors, I look forward to seeing those improvements continue and I have every confidence that they will.” 

Donald Duncan, the council’s director of educational services, was equally pleased at the level of progress which had been made in a relatively short time. 

“Carol Stuart has taken a strong lead and, with the backing of staff and pupils, the school is in a very good position to take further strides forward.”