The HMIE HGIOS report ‘How Good is our School – Self Evaluation using Quality Indicators’ is used to formulate the aims of Lionel School, as follows:

Curriculum

To provide a balanced, broad-based, timetabled curriculum, which will ensure that all pupils master basic skills in language and number, introduce them to various fields of knowledge, and prepare them for entering the adult world.

Attainment

To optimise attainment in coursework, ensure continuity and progression, encourage and promote positive self-esteem in pupils, and provide regular feedback to our pupils, which is clear, informative and supportive.

Learning and teaching

To provide high quality learning and teaching through a balanced curriculum for all pupils, provide pupils with the experience and skills appropriate to their aptitude and ability, including homework and reports on pupil progress, and to ensure that programmes of study are best suited to individual needs.

Support for pupils

To support all our pupils by providing a caring, well-ordered, happy and secure environment, promoting mutual respect and co-operation among teachers, pupils and parents, fostering the social and moral welfare of our pupils, and providing curricular and vocational guidance.  We will promote effective links with Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar, other educational agencies, statutory establishments and organisations, and with employers.

Ethos

To ensure a positive and supportive school ethos by stimulating in our pupils an awareness of their responsibilities, to develop a sense of identity and pride in the environment, history, language, culture and future development of their school and island home, and to widen their horizons by encouraging understanding of the wider world.  We will also promote effective links with Lionel School Board, Lionel School Parent Teacher Association, Lionel School Pupil Council and the wider community.

Resources

To optimise our provision of resources, ensuring that we develop the best possible accommodation and facilities, and that these are made widely available to the school and the wider community as appropriate.  We will also ensure that school staff have opportunities to develop their careers through Continuing Professional Development and Quality Assurance programmes.

Management, leadership and quality assurance

To provide sound school management, by maintaining high quality standards in the school through effective consultation, communication, evaluation and monitoring, and by promoting professional competence and commitment of staff through development planning.