HMI Inspection
Academy’s Very Good Achievements Recognised By Inspectors
Her Majesty’s Inspectors recently paid a visit to Dumfries Academy and found it to be a place where young people feel “safe, supported, encouraged and well cared for.” The school was praised for the positive relationships it developed with its young people which “support effective learning”. These relationships also allowed young people to become more independent and to become involved in the life of the school. Pupils with additional needs are well supported and included. In particular, senior pupils appreciated the opportunity to take on leadership roles in the school by supporting younger pupils in a variety of ways, as well as leading groups or committees. Pupils were observed to be “developing in confidence, performance and teamwork.” The opportunities for pupils to learn in a variety of environments have enabled them to become more responsible citizens.
At a time when new qualifications are being introduced and, when schools are changing the curriculum, to meet learners’ needs in the 21st century the school can be proud that the attainment of pupils in S4-6 has been judged as Very Good. In almost all measures for pupils in these year groups, the school’s figures equal or, indeed, exceed local and national averages. The school has an impressive range of courses for these youngsters and almost all go on to positive sustained destinations on leaving school. Headteacher, Joanne Dillon said: “To receive such a positive report from HMI, at a time when there is continual change, alongside increased expectations of performance, is testament to the hard work of the whole school community. I am particularly pleased that the school’s work with its partners; the staff commitment to career-long professional learning and the impact of transition arrangements with its cluster schools have been highlighted as key strengths. At Dumfries Academy, we strive to work together to provide the best possible experiences for all learners.”
The school now has a clear vision for the future under the direction of Mrs Dillon, Headteacher, who took up the post just before its inspection. Under recommendations from Inspectors, it will move forward by ensuring that there is consistent high quality learning, high expectations and continued evaluation of improvements.
“I am looking forward to leading the school forward into a new era and have complete confidence that our staff, parents, partners and young people will rise to the challenges ahead of us. We are a great team!” said Mrs Dillon.
A full copy of the report can be found at
https://www.education.gov.scot/assets/inspectionreports/dumfriesacademyins261113.pdf
