Inspectors give Barbour Nursery School glowing report
THE
principal of Barbour Nursery School has said that staff, Governors and
parents at the school are "delighted" following the recent publication
of the Department of Education's Inspection Report.
This is the first time that the school has been
inspected since the appointment three years ago of the new Principal,
Mrs Tracey Cassells. The report praised her hard work and dedication
observing that "the Principal demonstrates good leadership and is a good
role model for her staff." Inspectors praised the play facilities
available to the children at the school, which is located in the
Hillhall area on a spacious site that borders Lagan Valley Regional
Park, saying that the children's learning and development in the
well-equipped and challenging outdoor play area is a particular
strength."
Among the many strengths outlined in the report, the Inspectors highlighted the "very positive ethos, welcoming atmosphere and caring working relationships between the staff and children." They also particularly praised the quality of the staff's involvement with the children, describing it as being "consistently of a very high standard."
The school works hard to create and maintain positive
relationships with parents, providing many opportunities for them to
become involved in school life. Workshops and educational classes "are
designed to encourage the parents to play a full role in the education
of their children."
The promotion of language development in the school
was commended by the reporting Inspectors, who stated that the written
planning "outlines a broad and balanced programme which was designed to
foster children's all round development." Mrs Cassells praised the
efforts of all staff involved in the life of the school including
teachers, nursery assistants, caretaker, secretary and dinner lady. "The
school is very fortunate to have a superb team here who are very skilled
in their work with the children. Every member of staff is totally
dedicated to the pupils' well-being and education, and it is wonderful
to have this recognised officially by the Department of Education.
"I would like to place on record my thanks to all staff, Governors and parents for their continuing support and involvement."
Ulster Star
23/01/2009
