ST DOMINIC’S Primary School in Inchbrook has been rated as ‘requires improvement’ by Ofsted due to a lack of consistent progress made by pupils.

The education watchdog inspected St Dominic’s Catholic Primary on February 7-8, they noted that actions have been taken be new leadership to improve the school but these have not been implemented effectively or consistently.

Inspectors found that teachers do not support pupils to learn effectively and until recently subject leaders have lacked the guidance they need to improve standards.

However, lead inspector Catherine Leahy, said: "The newly appointed head teacher Jacqui Sollars is driving improvement at a fast pace.

"Plans to improve the quality of teaching are starting to have an impact with a higher proportion of pupils on track to reach the standards they are capable of.

"Children make good progress in the early years as a result of strong teaching and effective leadership and pupils behave well and are courteous and well mannered.

"Pupils know, understand and put into practice the school’s values, such as respect, friendship and justice. This has a very positive impact in promoting pupils’ moral and social development.”

Some parents who responded to Ofsted’s questionnaire and text service recorded their concerns relating to previous leadership and the number of changes in staffing.

However, many noted the immediate positive changes made since the start of this academic year and by the current head teacher in particular, describing the school as ‘moving forward in the right direction’.

Head teacher Jacqui Sollars, who started in January after six and a half years as head at Miserden Primary, said: "There a lot of strengths in the school and we know there are ways in which we can improve to deliver better education for all our pupils. I am looking forward to the future."

Ofsted inspectors had found that teachers did not consistently plan work that provides sufficient stretch and challenge for the most able pupils and as a result, pupils made slower progress than they should.

This was found throughout the teaching of maths and writing, however this was again reflective of the previous lack of direction provided to teachers.

Inspectors noted signs of progression aided by consistent guidelines which have been given to staff, ‘non-negotiables’ to improve the quality of teaching and higher confidence levels among teachers.

St Dominic’s, which has 98 pupils, was rated ‘good’ for personal development, behaviour and welfare and their early years’ provision.

Inspector Leahy noted: "Parents confirm that their children receive a good education in the early years.

"Many commented on the helpfulness of the home visits prior to starting school and ‘settling in’ sessions in the classroom. As a result, children settle quickly and behave well."

The primary was rated ‘requires improvement’ in three categories; effectiveness of leadership and management; quality of teaching, learning and assessment, and outcomes for pupils.

To read the Ofsted report visit bit.ly/2nVJGAJ