1.  Background  

Harris Academy was inspected in February and March 2004. Subjects included in the inspection were English, mathematics, physics and S1/S2 science, and technical education. The school is a non-denominational secondary school which serves the south-west of Dundee. At the time of the inspection the roll was 1207. The percentage of pupils entitled to free school meals was in line with the national average. Pupils' attendance was generally in line with the national average.

Members of the inspection team analysed responses to questionnaires issued to samples of pupils, parents and carers, and to all staff. They also met the chairperson of the School Board, the chairperson of the parent-teacher-pupil association (PTPA) and a group of parents. They interviewed groups of pupils and staff.