Analysis of schools and early years centres in North Ayrshire show they are performing above the national average.

The positive picture was highlighted in a report to North Ayrshire Council's cabinet on Tuesday with the work of head-teachers, teachers and education staff praised.

The findings come from the inspections carried out by Education Scotland, with a total of 26 inspections since session 2016/17.

Over that time frame, the performance of North Ayrshire schools in Education Scotland inspections has been positive overall.

In the period 2016-2023, the performance of schools in all four criteria – leadership of change; learning, teaching and assessment; ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion; raising attainment and achievement – was graded higher than the national average.

The most recent inspection highlighted key strengths common to several of the establishments they visited including positive relationships, strong leadership and engaged learners.

Councillor Shaun Macaulay, cabinet member for education, said: “There have been some great individual inspection reports over the years and we have never been in any doubt about the great work carried out right across our education service.

“This report has put our performances into a national context and underlines just how well we are performing.

“As well as the strengths it also highlights some areas where improvements can be made and we are sure all our schools and early years facilities will strive to get even better over the coming years.”