Report gives Waringstown PS resounding ‘thumbs-up’

According to the Education and Training Inspectorate Waringstown were ‘outstanding’ in a number of areas.

The report listed the school’s strengths as: the highly motivated, well-mannered children who engage enthusiastically in their learning; the outstanding quality of the pastoral provision which reflects the ethos of the school and the excellent working relationships at all levels; the outstanding standards attained by the children in literacy and numeracy and their wider achievements; the very good or outstanding quality of the teaching in three-quarters of the lessons observed; the outstanding quality of the broad and balanced curriculum provision; and the outstanding leadership and management of the Principal and the vice-principal supported effectively by the co-ordinators and all the staff.

The Inspectorate concluded: “In the areas inspected, the quality of education provided by this school is outstanding; the quality of pastoral care is also outstanding. The school has demonstrated its capacity for sustained self-improvement.”

Waringstown principal Gary Kennedy said: “I’m obviously indebted to my vice principal Mr Carl McCambley and to all of the teachers and ancillary staff in our school community for the excellence of the report. To receive an affirmation that “the quality of education provided by this school is outstanding and the quality of pastoral care is also outstanding” is a fantastic commendation to all my staff.

“The Inspection ensured that what we are striving to develop and achieve at Waringstown is endorsed and affirmed by our fellow professionals and that gives us much confidence and security. Those who contribute to the education of children have much to offer by way of sound advice based on professional experience and expertise.

“As leaders we play a pivotal role. The job is highly complex, demanding and stressful and after 36 years - 30 of them as Principal - I still have a feeling of awe and humility. I am deeply privileged to be Principal of a wonderful school community with staff who continue to work hard to improve the experience and life chances of our children.

“The job we do is highly prized and among the best vocation one could have - quality engagement in and with children and helping children to be the best they can be.”