THE principal of an Essex school placed into “special measures” following an inspection has said he is determined to tackle the problems as rapidly as possible.

THE principal of an Essex school placed into “special measures” following an inspection has said he is determined to tackle the problems as rapidly as possible.

The John Bramston School in Witham was rated as inadequate by Ofsted inspectors who said pupils were not receiving an acceptable standard of education.

Among the problems listed by the inspectors were the lack of progress being made by the youngsters.

Key stage three results for English, maths and science were among the worst in the country while the pupils' slow progress has been blamed on unsatisfactory teaching.

The report said: “Although some lessons are well focused and engage the pupils' attention, too many lack pace and imagination.

“Expectations of what the pupils can achieve are often too low; as a result, boredom is followed by disengagement and poor behaviour.”

But the school's principal, Ted Rowley, said: “While clearly we are disappointed that the has recommended that the school be placed in special measures we are determined to address the issues that caused concern and move forward as rapidly as possible.

“There were many aspects of the report which are encouraging and provide us with a sound foundation on which to build.

“Teaching was satisfactory or better in more than 80% of lessons, with outstanding and good teaching seen in many subject areas especially art, drama, German, information and communication technology and physical education.

“To achieve those improvements we need the support of parents and getting that support is a key aspect of the planning we have been doing.

“We are confident that by working together and imposing the effectiveness of the partnership we will be able to address these issues to further improve standards and have The John Bramston School out of special measures in the very near future.”

The inspectors gave the school five key areas to work on -

n Raising standards of attainment and achievement by increasing the academic challenge provided.

n Improve the quality of teaching and learning by increasing expectations throughout the school.

n Improve the strategic management of the school.

n Improve the consistency of implementation of policies and procedures, particularly with regard to management of behaviour.

n Improve the pupils' attitudes to learning.