Our Lady and St Patrick’s praised for Positive Ethos and Strong Culture

Published 22 April 2026

Young people at Our Lady and St Patrick’s High have been praised for having a strong sense of belonging and community, according to a recent inspection report.

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education in Scotland recently visited the school evaluating learning, teaching and assessment as well as raising attainment and achievement with both being given a rating of good.

Inspectors highlighted the highly positive ethos and calm learning environment which is present at Our Lady and St Patrick’s High where young people feel nurtured and respected. It also outlined the positive and supportive relationships between staff and pupils.

According to inspectors, this contributes to the strong sense of belonging and pride which young people have in their school community where young people show respect and kindness towards each other.

Regarding attainment, inspectors highlighted how staff work well with a range of partners and key stakeholders to provide a variety of supports for the most disadvantaged young people. Teaching and support staff place a strong focus on ensuring equity for all young people within the school, helping them to achieve. 

Teachers use a range of effective approaches to give feedback to students about their progress in learning and next steps with young people appreciative of the support which is given to them. 

Chief Officer of Education, Gillian Hamilton said: “This is a positive report for Our Lady and St Patrick’s High and I am delighted that the strong and nurturing relationships between staff and pupils has been highlighted.

“Students are achieving, moving onto positive destinations and their experiences within the school are preparing them for life.

“It is particularly pleasing that the ethos in the school for creating a strong sense of community has been praised, borne out of the supportive relationships which teaching staff and students have.

“The school will use the feedback provided by inspectors to help build on this success even further in future.”

Our Lady and St Patrick’s High Head Teacher, Christopher Smith, said: “It is no surprise to myself and the staff here that the inspection team have picked up on the positive relationships which are shared between teachers and pupils as well as the community ethos and spirit here at Our Lady and St Patrick’s.

“It is always great to hear feedback from people outside the school who value the work we are doing to prepare our young people to be citizens who contribute positively to society.

“This report is testament to the hard work which is undertaken day-in, day-out at our school and I want to recognise the ongoing support from all of our staff who put such great effort into the work they do.”