Pupils at Whitelees Primary School and Nursery Class have been described by school inspectors as confident, articulate and happy children who embody the school’s values and demonstrate a strong sense of belonging.
The school in Cumbernauld is celebrating a highly positive inspection report following a visit from His Majesty’s Inspectors of Education in January 2026.
Inspectors highlighted the strong, vibrant and nurturing culture that has been created across the school and nursery, praising children, staff and leadership for their commitment, enthusiasm and high standards.
“The report truly reflects everything that makes Whitelees such an amazing school community,” said Laura Murdoch, Head Teacher of Whitelees Primary School and Nursery Class.
“Our pupils are proud of belonging to team Whitelees and their enthusiasm, kindness, and positivity shone throughout the visit. I could not be prouder of them.”
“The inspection recognised our learners as highly motivated, eager, and active participants in their learning.
“We were pleased that this was reflected in the recognition of our very good levels of attainment in literacy and numeracy across the school.”
The report also highlighted:
- Highly effective leadership from the headteacher, supported by principal teachers, who together foster a positive, purposeful ethos with clear expectations and high standards.
- Exceptionally responsive staff who ensure children feel safe, valued and nurtured, leading to strong engagement and progress in learning.
- A reflective, forward‑thinking staff team committed to continuous improvement and professional learning, resulting in high‑quality learning and teaching.
- High levels of attainment in literacy and numeracy, with children skilfully applying their learning both in the classroom and outdoors.
Laura Murdoch added: “I am also delighted that our strong school and nursery ethos was highlighted, along with the high standards and expectations we set.
“I would like to thank all our staff and the wider Whitelees community. This report reflects the collective effort, dedication, and shared commitment that underpin everything we do at Whitelees.”
Pupils were equally delighted with the report stating:
'We like that our report spoke about our school values and how we show them because that's what we're all about in Whitelees.'
'We were pleased that the Inspectors recognised that the children and adults make our school amazing.'
'We like all the things the Inspectors said about our good work and high standards - this will help us keep being fantastic!'
Inspectors rated the school Very Good across all four of the national quality indicators:
- Leadership of change – Very Good
- Learning, teaching and assessment – Very Good
- Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion – Very Good
- Raising attainment and achievement – Very Good
The nursery class also received strong evaluations, with all three early years quality indicators rated as good.