The team of HMIe inspectors also stated in the report that the school is achieving good levels of learning, teaching and assessing along with raising very good attainment and achievement throughout the school.

Waheeda Huq, Head Teacher at Strathaven Academy, said: “I am extremely grateful to our staff, young people, families, partners and local authority representatives who have supported us in achieving a positive inspection.

“We foster a supportive ethos across the school and wider community which enables our pupils to succeed. An important strength highlighted by the inspection team is that staff value all learners as individuals and there are highly positive relationships across the school.

“As head teacher, I am extremely proud that the pupils of Strathaven Academy are friendly, polite and respectful, and display a positive attitude to their learning. Staff work hard to ensure all our learners attain and achieve in a calm and nurturing environment. 

“We will continue to provide opportunities for our young people through our highly effective partnerships with parents, local businesses and external agencies to enable all learners to leave Strathaven Academy equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive as responsible, respectful and resilient citizens.”

Key strengths in the report highlighted that teachers have developed a very strong understanding of national standards and expectations and have implemented that by a planned programme of South Lanarkshire-wide peer working.

Tracking young people’s progress as they advance through the school has led to high levels of attainment.

The inspectors noted that the hard working and purposeful contribution from pupils has created a calm and productive environment for learning.

The report also said that senior pupils were well informed about their strengths and the next steps for their education.

S6 captain Zoe Barbour said: “As senior pupils we enjoyed being part of the inspection. We recognise that the academy is an important part of our local community and we take great pride in our pursuit to be the best we can.

Fellow S6 captain Scott Fleming added: “Although admittedly daunting, the inspection presented us with an opportunity to showcase Strathaven Academy and be proud of everything we have achieved.”

The report also recommended that teachers should continue to develop high quality learning, teaching and assessment whilst developing tasks and activities that are engaging and set at the correct level for every pupil.

Carole McKenzie, the council’s Executive Director of Education, said: “Congratulations to Waheeda Huq and her leadership team for ensuring the entire school community are involved in supporting pupils to help them attain high standards of learning and development.

“By preparing pupils for their educational advancement as they progress through every level of the school, the pupils are getting the very best start in their educational journey.”