DUNOON GRAMMAR School’s head teacher has expressed confidence that the school will see a further improvement in its exam results in August.
A report revealed that in the 2023/24 Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) exam diet, the school beat the local and national average A-C pass rates at all three levels.
David Mitchell now expects to see further upward movement when the 2024/25 results are released in August, as a result of the work of staff at the school.
He spoke to councillors at a meeting of Argyll and Bute Council’s Bute and Cowal area committee on Tuesday, June 3.
Councillor William Sinclair (Liberal Democrat, Cowal) asked: “Are you happy with the way the attainment gap is moving? I know you may have had a few issues last year, but are you happy with how it is going for you?”
Mr Mitchell said: “I think again next year, we will see an improvement in all areas. I think that is down to the effort staff have put in to get that clear understanding of SQA data.
“We have always performed fairly well and I think there will be an increase again. We have also offered other attainment courses at levels five and six.
“It is hard work and our staff do a really good job, without which we would not be able to see this improvement happening. I am happy with the way we are going.”
Councillor Gordon Blair (SNP, Cowal) then asked: “What inter-agency work has been going on, and are there any areas that can be improved?”
Mr Mitchell responded: “We have set up a joint services group, which is meeting every six weeks. It consists of head teachers, police and social work and we had it running last year before it fell away.
“But it met yesterday to plan for next session, and will improve communication, because we need to be working closer and sharing information to ensure young people achieve their potential.”
Andrew Galloway Local Democracy Reporter
