The reputation of Hermitage Academy has improved both locally and nationally and it is now seen as a large and successful school at the forefront of many educational initiatives.

That assessment was made by head teacher Geoff Urie when he addressed parents and pupils at the school’s prizegiving on Thursday.

He said: “As a school and a local authority, we have many challenges ahead in times of severe financial constraints. My hope is that Hermitage Academy will be used as an example of a school that is successful and excellent value for money, and that we will be able to continue on our journey of improvement.” Referring to the HMIe inspectors’ visit to the school in June, he said their report had endorsed his view of the school.

He continued “The inspectors arrived at a very busy week in terms of timetable change and primary induction days and their concluding report highlighted the many strengths of the school, including the pupils, the involvement with the community and partners, the progress being made with the Curriculum for Excellence and in the leadership and direction the school was taking.” He said the school roll had risen and now stood at 1,405 pupils, making it the biggest school in Argyll and Bute and also one of the biggest in Scotland. S6 has 190 pupils, the largest the school has ever had.

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