School placed in special measures

Inspectors rated Richmond Hill Primary School, in Cross Green, as “inadequate” and raised serious concerns about pupils attendance and teaching in a new report.

The Ofsted report said: “Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector is of the opinion that this school requires special measures because it is failing to give its pupils an acceptable standard of education and the persons responsible for leading, managing or governing the school are not demonstrating the capacity to secure the necessary improvement in the school.”

Inspectors said the overall effectiveness had declined because of “weak leadership and teaching over time”. It was previously rated as “good” in a 2014 inspection.

The new report said: “Over time, actions taken by leaders and managers have failed to improve pupils’ progress.

“Governors and the headteacher have not established effective middle leadership to overcome weaknesses across the school.”

However, inspectors praised the school for its early years provision and safeguarding of vulnerable pupils.

Nathan Atkinson, head teacher, said: “We agree with the inspector’s assessment that our school meets the Ofsted criteria that requires special measures but we are determined to continue to rise to the challenge.

“We are very proud of our school and the hard work and commitment shown by our staff and most pupils every day.”