FELIXSTOWE: An international boarding school in the town says it has addressed concerns raised by Ofsted about student safety.

Felixstowe International School, which helps youngsters from around the world perfect their English and prepare for life in top independent schools, was rated as “inadequate” by inspectors for its student safety.

The verdict was reached after a visit by inspectors in January and the report was published on February 29.

While the provision for boarders and student care was considered to be “good” and leadership and management was “satisfactory” at the 25-pupil school, the inspectors said action needed to be taken to resolve issues relating to the fire alarm system and the monitoring of Criminal Record Bureau checks.

In her report, inspector Angela Hunt said: “The provision of care is good. This is supported by the nurturing care students receive from housemothers. This provides an environment in which boarders’ emotional, physical and social needs are acknowledged and promoted.”

She added: “The safety of boarders is inadequate. While boarders report that they feel safe, the school’s systems do not fully protect boarders. For example, while there is a process to undertake checks and references on staff, not all persons over 16 (not on the roll of the school) who live on the same premises as boarders have undergone a CRB check.”

Robert Bloyce, director of studies at the school, which is owned by a South Korean woman and has many students from the country, said all issues had now been resolved.

He said fire inspectors had been in this week to sign off the new alarm system and any problems with CRB records had been immediately resolved.

n Have you got an education story? Call the newsdesk on 01473 324790 or e-mail starnews@archant.co.uk