STAFF at an pupil referral unit have been accused of 'hiding behind excuses' by inspectors who have ruled the school ‘inadequate’.

The newly published Ofsted report on Hendon Brook School in Nelson, based on an inspection in April this year, includes strong criticism of the unit’s performance, which has declined since the last official check in 2015.

Hendon Brook, on Townhouse Road, Nelson serves pupils excluded from other schools in Burnley, Pendle, Hyndburn, Ribble Valley and Rossendale.

Two years ago it was graded as ‘requires improvement’ by Ofsted inspectors.

In the latest report, inspectors said effectiveness of leadership and management, quality of teaching, learning and assessment and outcomes for pupils are all declared inadequate.

Personal development, behaviour and welfare was also said to require improvement.

Inspectors Pippa Jackson Maitland and Bernard Robinson, said in the report: “Senior leaders and governors have failed to take the decisive action required following the findings of the previous inspection.

“Too often they have hidden behind excuses rather than actively seeking out solutions to the challenges faced by the school.

"Consequently, the school’s effectiveness has declined since the previous inspection.”

It also states: “Far too much of the teaching is weak.”

Too many pupils are said to be regularly absent and the curriculum is described as disorganised.

However, pupils are regarded as safe and well cared for. Most pupils settle quickly, conform well to behaviour expectations and many move on successfully to mainstream or special schools.

Headteacher Nicola Fielding said: “While we are disappointed with the outcome, we accept the findings and, with the support of the local authority, are developing an action plan to address the issues identified.

“The leadership team is committed to improving the direction and management of the school and we are putting focused plans in place.”