Inspectors have praised an Aberdeenshire school’s leadership and “positive ethos” in a report.
Inverurie Academy was commended for coming through a period of significant staff change in recent years to change the culture of the school for the better.
After visiting the school in April, the inspectors were left impressed with the learning and teaching of the school, as well as its efforts in ensuring wellbeing and inclusion.
An area where the school has been challenged to improve is in raising attainment and achievement, with the proportion of pupils sitting final exams in five subjects in S4 and S5 lower than in 2015/6.
Head teacher Mark Jones said: “At Inverurie Academy we are excited about the journey of improvement we have embarked upon.
“The Education Scotland visit was timely and we appreciated the opportunity to discuss our progress and plans for improvement at this early stage.
“Inspection colleagues acknowledge the progress we have made over the past session and together we are clear about the next steps we need to take to ensure that Inverurie Academy is an ambitious and inclusive place to learn and work.”
Aberdeenshire Council’s education and children’s services committee chairwoman Gillian Owen said: “I am pleased that the school has already made plans for further improvements and it is encouraging that inspectors have recognised the progress made by the school under the leadership of the head teacher at Inverurie Academy.
“The council is working with the school on improving raising attainment and achievement; developing the curriculum to take into account national advice and enhancing learning, teaching and assessment to ensure the best possible outcomes for all our young people.
“With the continued commitment of the staff and the strong and clear vision of the head teacher and the school’s extended leadership team, Inverurie Academy is well placed to continue to improve.”