Perth High School’s quick changes after a damaging HMI report have impressed local councillors.
The Fair City secondary school’s management came under fire in January when the report from a November HMI inspection was published, branding the school as only “satisfactory” in all areas.
The report was released in the same week as a shocking bullying video involving Perth High pupils appeared on social media.
A meeting was held last week at the school for parents and members of the public to quiz senior management.
The leadership team gave a presentation to more than 100 parents and answered a range of questions about the school.
A Perth and Kinross Council spokesperson explained: “After the publication of an Education Scotland report we hold a meeting with parents of the school to give them the opportunity to hear in detail more about the inspection and to update them on any improvement activity that has been undertaken since the inspection and the plans for moving forward.”
An improved anti-bullying strategy designed to clamp down on problems before they get to the stage filmed two months ago which is being rolled out has been praised.
Perth South councillor Sheila McCole said: “I will continue to support the headteacher Thirza Pupillo, her staff, parents and students, as we seek continued improvement in the delivery of first class education at Perth High School.
“I particularly welcome plans for a more robust anti-bullying strategy and to reinforce respectful values throughout the school.
“It is important that pupils, parents and staff alike come together at this time in order that Perth High School can move forward quickly and successfully.”
SNP group education spokesperson John Rebbeck added: “It is encouraging to note from a recent meeting with the headteacher that many of the issues raised in the report had already been recognised and plans put in place to deal with them.
“I am further encouraged that senior staff are determined to apply the already existing positive practices in teaching more consistently across the whole school.
“We look forward to the inspectors returning next year when we can assess progress made against the HMI’s recommendation.”
