COURT Fields Community School in Wellington has dropped from a 'good' Ofsted rating to 'satisfactory' following a three-day inspection.

The grading slip is believed to have been caused by the school's failure to achieve an 80% 'good' rating for its overall teaching standards.

Head teacher Elaine Faull said: “The inspectors told us that we need to ensure 80% of our teaching is at least 'good', which we were only just off by our figures anyway.

“They also asked us to improve our consistency in achievement across the school and to develop a numeracy programme, which we currently don't have.”

The inspectors also found that the school had a number of strengths, including the good care, guidance and support of its pupils.

Young people attending the school were considered to be keen and enthusiastic with high aspirations.

Court Fields School was also praised for its good links with external agencies and further education centres.

Mrs Faull added: “Like all visitors to Court Fields, the inspectors found us to be a welcoming and friendly school where students felt safe and were happy in their learning.

“OFSTED recognised the many ways we provide a good learning environment where pupils needs are well met. As a community School we were pleased that OFSTED recognised our close partnership work.

“We were pleased that the lead inspector recognised that the Leadership Team were on course to show significant improvement in results in the coming year and future years. The progress and work of our younger students were particularly praised. “