Despite the dispute between the Educational Institute of Scotland and James Watt College on what the union claims is management’s attempt to “de-recognise” it, HMIE has praised the way the college deals with staff. Inspectors say principal Sue Pinder provides “strong, focused leadership”, which is more “open and consultative”. The report suggests “staff are more trusting of senior managers than previously”. The review was carried out in March, before the row broke out.