HEALTH chiefs in the county have sent an emergency squad of experts to boost standards at a Preston school which was slated by Ofsted inspectors.

Her Majesty's Inspectors slammed St Matthews Primary on New Hall Lane for poor attendance, weak management and disruptive behaviour.

As part of a national educational crack-down, the officers will spend several months liaising with staff in an attempt to bring the school up to the mark.

A County Hall spokesman said: "The experts will address the weaknesses as a matter of urgency and help the staff improve standards."

The shock findings show:

two thirds of lessons failed to reach satisfactory teaching standards;

there is a 'significant amount of disorderly behaviour' among pupils;

the overall progress made by pupils is unsatisfactory, with lots of underachievement;

the management of the school has 'significant weaknesses'.

St Matthew's governor Kathleen Walker said the school realises the benefit of the report. She said: "Everyone involved with St Matthew's has taken on board what the inspector said. Staff are working really hard to put this right and are determined to improve the general standard of the school."

She added that meetings have been held with parents who are confident that the problems will be put right. She said: "We have drawn up an action plan which will hopefully be taken on board by everyone."

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