A North Devon primary school is set to join a multi-academy trust after an Ofsted inspection found "concerns across a number of areas". West Croft Primary School in Bideford was inspected on May 19 and told it requires "special measures because it is failing to provide an acceptable standard of education".
Inspectors said too many pupils are not achieving as well as they should, and improvements have not been made quickly enough since the last inspection. As a result, the school is expected to receive an academy order from the Department for Education, which brings additional support and oversight.
The report said personal development and wellbeing "needs attention" and that "urgent improvement" is needed in achievement, early years, inclusion, attendance, behaviour, curriculum, teaching, leadership and governance. Safeguarding standards are met, and staff have positive relationships with pupils that help keep children safe. Pupils told inspectors they know they can speak to a member of staff if they have concerns.
Headteacher Lisa Johnston said: "We know we have significant improvements to make, and we are already taking action to address the areas identified by inspectors. Our focus is firmly on ensuring every child receives the high-quality education they deserve.
"We have strengthened leadership, introduced new approaches to teaching and assessment, and begun work to improve attendance, behaviour and outcomes across the school. While we recognise there is much more to do, we have a clear plan for improvement and a determination to deliver lasting change.
"It is encouraging that inspectors recognised some of the strengths within our school, including the positive relationships between staff and pupils, our commitment to safeguarding and the opportunities we provide to enrich children's experiences.
"We will work closely with governors, Devon County Council, the Department for Education and our future academy trust partner to build on those strengths and secure the best possible future for every pupil at West Croft."
The report noted that pupils enjoy coming to school and benefit from opportunities beyond the classroom, such as residential visits, curriculum trips and activities designed to broaden their experiences. It also said "many pupils with SEND do not achieve as well as they should".
James Ebsworthy, Chair of Governors at West Croft, said: "Ensuring every pupil at West Croft School is supported to thrive, achieve their potential and enjoy their education remains at the heart of everything we do.
"While we are naturally disappointed by aspects of the recent Ofsted inspection, we recognise the valuable feedback it provides and are committed to addressing the areas identified for improvement. Governors will continue to work closely with school leaders and staff to ensure that the necessary actions are taken and progress is carefully monitored.
"We are proud of the care, commitment and opportunities provided by our staff and of the strong community that exists at West Croft.
"It is encouraging that the report has acknowledged the safe and supportive environment we provide, the positive connections between pupils and staff, and the broad range of experiences that enrich our children's education.
"Our focus now is clear: to build on our strengths, respond positively to the inspection findings and secure the very best outcomes and experiences for every pupil at West Croft."
Bideford Primary School Placed in Special Measures After Ofsted