Balfron High School Balfron Inspection of Standards and Quality 22/06/1999

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Inspection of Biology and S1/S2 Science,

Computing

and Modern Languages Balfron High School Stirling Council ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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1. The Inspections 2. The School

HM Inspectors carried out inspections of biology and S1/S2 science, computing and modern languages at Balfron High School. The departments inspected were chosen as part of a national sample of subjects taught in secondary schools. The visits took place in March 1999.

For each of the subjects, HM Inspectors visited classrooms to observe teaching, examined pupils’ work and interviewed staff and pupils. They looked at accommodation and resources for learning. They assessed the methods used by the departments to assure the quality of learning and teaching.

The findings are based solely on the inspection of the three subject departments. They should not be assumed to apply to other departments in the school, or to the school as a whole. The school and education authority may, however, find it useful to consider the wider implications of this report for the school.

Balfron High School has a roll of 829 pupils. The school serves a large rural catchment area in West Stirlingshire, including the villages of Killearn, Strathblane and Balfron. Pupils’ attendance was well above national levels.

Accommodation, resources and staffing Overall, accommodation for teaching was good. Laboratories were generally in a good state of repair. There was insufficient central storage space for equipment and chemicals. Some matters of health and safety were drawn to the attention of staff. Staff bases did not provide a good working environment. Overall, resources were in good supply. The provision of information and communications technology (ICT) should be improved.

The level of staffing was good. Technicians made a very good contribution to the work of the science departments.

3. Biology and S1/S2 Science

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