HERMITAGE Academy’s reputation as a source of support for young people has been further boosted after it received a glowing report card.
The Helensburgh school became the first in Scotland to receive national accreditation from Investors in Young People (IIYP) in February 2019 – and remains the only Scottish school with the title.
And a follow-up report has referred to the academy as an ambassador for its young employees, as well as recognising its commitment to employing younger staff, students and probationary teachers.
Argyll and Bute Council’s policy lead for education, Councillor Yvonne McNeilly, has described the follow-up report as “just amazing”, and lavished praise on the school.
READ MORE: Pupils isolating after further Covid-19 cases at Helensburgh school
The school’s depute head teacher, Roseanne Mackay, said: “As a school, we recognise that we can deliver for our young people and their families by investing in our staff.
“We are proud to hold this accreditation that recognises this commitment and our continued engagement with the Developing Young Workforce agenda. We would like to thank all staff who were involved in this process.”
Councillor McNeilly said: “When Hermitage Academy received IIYP accreditation in February 2019 it was the first school in Scotland to do so.
“Eighteen months later and Hermitage is still the only school in the country to have this prestigious accolade to its name. This in itself is a remarkable feat, but to then receive such a fabulous follow-up report is just amazing.
READ MORE: Hermitage Academy wins award for workforce support
“Hermitage is recognised as an employer of choice and the IIYP acknowledges the large number of practices that the school has put into place that result in positive outcomes for its young people.
“It’s clear that Hermitage is leading the way when it comes to providing opportunities for young people, particularly those in its workforce, and I look forward to seeing what they achieve next. I have a strong feeling that they might be going for gold next. Watch this space!”
Among the elements highlighted in the follow-up report is the confidence and competence developed in young staff as a result of positive and constructive feedback.
Assessors also felt that young staff were empowered to contribute to key decision-making in their department.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here