A SCHOOL in Taunton is taking effective measures toward the removal of 'serious weaknesses' identified by education watchdog Ofsted.

Taunton Academy was rated as 'inadequate' following an inspection in January of this year, and was set a number of targets to improve on.

In November, Ofsted inspector Marcia Headon visited the school to check on progress and found a number of positive steps had been taken to address concerns about the quality of teaching, learning and assessment.

Mrs Headon writes: "The headteacher has continued her relentless drive for improvement and is well supported by the extended senior leadership team.

"The team has introduced a wide range of initiatives to support improvement in the quality of teaching and these are now beginning to bear fruit."

Since the school's previous inspection there have been extensive staffing changes. Eleven members of staff have left and 13 have joined. The school has also increased the number of pupils by 50.

The inspector also said the senior team were working to address the gap in achievement and progress for disadvantaged pupils, and staff were being given more training to help individuals.

She also highlighted how exam results had significantly improved in 2017.

However there were some concerns that attendance overall remains below the national level and had dropped this term.

Headteacher, Jenny Veal, said: “I am thrilled to be able to see such good news to end what has been a fantastic term for the school.

"Our latest Ofsted monitoring inspection has acknowledged that we are making significant improvements in provision for our students.

"The inspector’s comments are testimony to the fact that we are heading onwards and upwards.”

To view the inspection report visit the Ofsted website and search for The Taunton Academy.