A SCHOOL with nearly 200 pupils has been placed in special measures by Ofsted following a disappointing inspection.

Charfield Primary was deemed "inadequate" after a thorough review by the regulator, who warned the school its pupils' achievement needed to improve urgently.

In the report, lead inspector Michael Merchant said the standard of teaching had declined since Ofsted's last visit in 2009.

"Attainment is lower, pupil’s progress is slower and teaching is weaker," he wrote.

He added that although measures had been put in place to address these issues, they had not yet had demonstrable effects on the school’s overall achievement.

"The curriculum does not meet the needs of most pupils because it does not promote good learning, is not well matched to their needs and, as a result, does not prepare them adequately for the next stages of their education."

Three years ago, the school, which has 193 pupils, had been ranked good with outstanding features.

Head teacher Dafydd Lawday said that due to various members of staff taking maternity and sick leave the management structure had been left shaken.

But he told the Gazette he was condident Charfield would make swift progress and that the Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) results this year were expected to be well above regional and national average.

"The parents are very supportive of the school and I think the report will be a surprise for them. But I think the community will rally round and help us improve."

As part of its action plan Charfield Primary, along with the local authority, has brought in outside help. Kingswood’s Park and Parkwall schools federation head teacher Mark Dee has joined the team and will be sharing his expertise to get staff back on track.

Chairman of governors at Charfield primary, Jason Lugg, welcomed Mr Dee’s assistance.

"The Ofsted judgement is disappointing but everyone involved with the school is feeling very positive about the journey ahead of us," he said.

"We have every intention of taking full advantage of the extra support we will receive to build on the improvements we have made already and work together to drive the school forward further."

South Gloucestershire Council director for children and young people Therese Gillespie said the local authority was working hand in hand with the school’s leaders to ensure rapid improvements were made.

"Progress is already being made with the appointment of Mark Dee as executive head of Charfield school," she said.

"Mark has an excellent track record with the Park and Parkwall federation and we have every confidence in his ability to lead Charfield out of special measures."