Published on:
25
October 2017
Twelve pupils from Alloa Academy had a special chance to give their thoughts and ideas on the national plan to improve education in Scotland.
Alloa was one of only five schools in the country chosen by the Scottish Government to take part in the consultation event, which was organised to support the development of the 2018 National Improvement Framework and Improvement Plan.
During the event, there was a strong focus on improvement, and the government officials were impressed that what came through loud and clearly from the pupils was the desire to be the best they can be.
Feedback was described as exceptional, and key themes from the discussions emerged including:
· Emphasis on health and wellbeing, particularly mental health
· Vision of excellence and equity, closing the attainment gap
· Focus on Developing Young Workforce, including quality work placements
· Strong leadership visible throughout the school
The feedback will form part of the development work ongoing on the 2018 plan, which is due for publication later this year.
Alloa Academy pupil Adarsh said: “Giving feedback and having my views heard, I felt assured the government is taking steps forward to improve education for the future generation.”
Fellow pupil Anna added: “To young people, it feels like most change occurs in a space outwith our control, so it was exciting to be assured that we have so much influence on that change.”
Education Spokesperson Cllr Graham Lindsay commented: “I am really proud of the important role the young people at Alloa Academy are playing in the development of this national plan. It was particularly pleasing to read the feedback from the government officials, who were very impressed during their visit. They feel that our young people are a credit to Clackmannanshire, and that there is much to celebrate at the school and we should be very proud. I agree with those views, and pass on my thanks to the headteacher Colin Bruce and his staff, pupils and families at Alloa Academy who are all working hard to make the school the best it can be.”