The school aims to provide an environment where all children will find stability and caring attitudes. It works to provide a curriculum which stimulates children to respond with enthusiasm, and encourages self-discipline and respect for others, as well as themselves and their environment. Each child is encouraged to develop their full personal and academic potential, and to value individuality. In order to achieve these aims, the school has a structured self- evaluation and monitoring programme, which is continually being developed to enable the school to deliver a high standard of quality assurance.
The school is situated in the village of Minard, on the shores of Loch Fyne, in Mid-Argyll, on the A83 between Inveraray and Lochgilphead.
The school caters for children from the age of 4.5 years to 12 years, and the overall pupil capacity is 33 pupils.
The school staff is a strong and committed, well- established team, with the teaching members being well supported by caring and versatile ancillary staff.
The school, which was built for its current purpose, in 1871, is of traditional rural design.
The building itself comprises one classroom with dining area, corridor with cloakroom, toilets and office. The school is well equipped with disabled access and facilities. It is in good repair and furnished throughout with modern equipment. Although small, the environment is bright and stimulating and the atmosphere is happily busy but relaxed.
The curriculum is matched to the programmes of study laid down in the 5-14 Guidelines, and account is taken of the individual needs, abilities, aptitudes and interests of the children. We aim for continuous improvement in Standards and Quality, and all staff are involved in identifying the priorities for the school’s improvement plan.
Optimum use is made of individual strengths, experience and skills of teaching staff, and in this school we carry out team teaching and co-operative teaching whenever appropriate, each member of staff having a special responsibility for one or two areas of the curriculum. All staff are encouraged to participate in staff development programmes as individual and school needs are identified.
The ethos of the school is generally perceived to be successful, welcoming, and very supportive, with happy, motivated pupils and staff.
HMIE inspection Reports:
HM Inspectorate of Education (HMIE) inspects and reports on the quality of education in pre-school centres, primary schools, secondary schools, special schools, community learning and development services, colleges, and residential educational provision.
You can read and download any inspection reports for this school, and find out more about the inspection process, on the Education Scotland website.