AN AYR school has been given high praise following an inspection visit last year.

Belmont Academy was recognised for creating an effective ‘culture of trust and respect’ across the school.

The school scored the second highest grades of ‘very good’ for two areas, whilst it was given pass marks of ‘good’ in the other two categories after a visit from Education Scotland in November 2019.

The highest praise came from ‘Leadership of change’ with the effective leadership of headteacher Mrs Tracy Stewart for empowering staff and youngsters across the school.

Belmont was accredited for ‘Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion’ with inspectors impressed by the positive and respectful relationships across the school, and it helps create a learning environment which is inclusive for all.

Inspectors found pupils to be motivated to develop key skills, gain success and accreditation, and engage fully in the life of the school community.

Despite a clean bill of health, the school was recommended to continue to strive for excellence with areas for improvement identified and discussed with Mrs Stewart and South Ayrshire Council.