A PRIMARY school in Darwen has been told it requires improvement after an inspection.

St Edward’s RC Primary School in Blackburn Road received the judgement after Ofsted inspectors expressed concerns at the quality of teaching and achievement of pupils.

The report however found that behaviour and safety of pupils, and leadership and management were good.

It comes as a blow to the school, which has 202 pupils enrolled, which was rated good overall at its last inspection three years ago.

In his report, lead inspector James Kidd said: “Since the previous inspection, there has been a downward trend in pupils’ achievement.

“For example, in 2013 a below average proportion of pupils made expected progress in mathematics and writing.

“Over a two-year period, the quality of teaching has been inconsistent and has not been good enough to ensure that pupils made good or better progress in their studies.

“The challenge for the most-able pupils has been inconsistent and not always enabled them to reach the standards of which they are capable.”

Mr Kidd did report a number of strengths at the school and said: “The headteacher, deputy headteacher and senior team have put in place well founded strategies to improve the quality of teaching.

“As a result, teaching and assessment are now much better and pupils’ achievement is improving rapidly.

“Pupils continue to behave well. They are proud of their school and feel safe within its walls.

“The school’s work to ensure that its pupils are safe and secure is outstanding. “

Headteacher Gerard Keane did not wish to comment on the report’s findings.