Deaf school gets glowing report

From: BBC News, UK - Sep 10, 2004

A national school for the deaf which hit the headlines after abuse claims from pupils has been turned around, inspectors have said.

A damning report released six years ago suggested that Donaldson's College in Edinburgh was poorly run.

The principal and two members of staff were suspended after claims of assault. The principal received an absolute discharge in court but resigned.

Inspectors have now said the college's care and lessons have improved.

The school provides education for 75 pupils from across Scotland.

The report, following an inspection in March, said: "Deaf staff provided very good role models for deaf pupils. Children felt safe and supported."

Staff 'committed'

It said teachers, supported by classroom assistants, had established a "very good climate for learning in classes".

The evaluations for school climate, meeting pupils' needs, personal development, curriculum structure and planning were all ranked "very good".

The HM Inspectorate of Education added: "All staff were committed to the school and the needs of its pupils.

"There were examples of very good teamwork between education and care staff, between teams in classrooms and between the speech and language therapy staff and teachers."

© BBC MMIV