A PRIMARY school near Tadcaster has been placed in special measures after being judged ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted.

North Yorkshire County Council said it was working with the Diocese of York to put a support plan in place for Saxton Church of England Primary School, with assistance from neighbouring Monk Fryston Church of England School.

York Press:

It said it had appointed an acting headteacher, Carole Middleton, an experienced head with a strong track record, to take the school forward.

Ofsted’s report, published following an inspection, said that safeguarding was ineffective because pupils did not play safely in the playground. “Adults do not communicate their expectations clearly enough to pupils regarding their behaviour and conduct outside, which occasionally leads to accidents,” it said.

The report also said leaders did not have an accurate view of school performance, including teaching, because checks were not rigorous and robust, and governors had not provided effective support or challenge to leaders. Teachers’ assessment of pupils’ learning was also inaccurate, and pupils made poor progress in writing and mathematics.

However, the inspectors found pupil attendance was above the national average, pupils enjoyed coming to school and appreciated opportunities provided, phonics were well taught in early years and pupils acquired reading and writing skills quickly.

The council said Saxton’s headteacher was on sick leave when the inspection was held.

Cllr Patrick Mulligan, executive member for schools, said a swift plan was being put in place to get the school back on track, while Dawn Younge,chair of governors, said they were determined to act swiftly to address the issues raised.