In brief...

The key strengths in primary schools are partnership with parents and carers, support for pupils with special educational needs and improved attainment in mathematics and English language, according to a report from HM Inspectorate of Education on standards in Scottish schools. The report, Standards and Quality in Primary and Secondary Schools: 1998-2001, also found that many primaries had an ethos of achievement, but warned of weaknesses in leadership from headteachers, which it identified in 15 per cent of schools. There were also concerns about accommodation and health and safety. HM senior chief inspector Douglas Osler said, 'While there are many...