A NATIONAL leader of education has gone into Wellsprings Primary School, Taunton, after it entered ‘special measures’.

Ofsted inspectors concluded that Wellsprings fails to provide an acceptable education, attainment is below average and the school is slow resolving issues from the last inspection.

They added that more-able pupils’ learning is not well catered for, while teaching, learning and tracking pupils’ progress need improving.

Head teacher Mark Lunn said: “We believe the school has already begun to make progress towards addressing the issues raised by the inspectors in a relatively short space of time.

“The school is grateful for the initial support provided by Somerset Local Authority and we’re confident Wellsprings will be out of special measures well within the two-year time frame.”

The inspectors praised pupils’ behaviour and attitudes, adding teachers and children enjoy good relationships.

Chairman of the governors Darren James said: “We’re full of confidence in the school and leadership team and staff.

“We believe we can move on very quickly and make long-lasting improvements.

“Wellsprings will continue to be the happy school with a rich environment for learning we all very much appreciate.”

Jenny Venning, head at Hugh Sexey’s Middle School, Wedmore, and previously at North Town Primary School, Taunton, has been drafted in to put Wellsprings back on track by summer 2012.

Somerset County Council leader Cllr Ken Maddock said: “We want to reassure parents we’re working closely with the head and chairman of governors to address the key issues the report has identified.

“We’re preparing a statement of action and the leadership team at Wellsprings are drawing up an action plan.”

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