Great Harwood school out of special measures

North Cliffe School, Blackburn Old Road, Great Harwood, was judged failing in March 2008 by Ofsted officials following an inspection.

They had discovered teaching and learning was inadequate, there was a rising number of absences including exclusions and pupils behaviour was poor.

However the then acting headteacher David Parkes was praised for the improving staff morale and improving children’s enjoyment at the school.

A new head Mr Mark Wilson was appointed and the school has started its new term with grade three or satisfactory progress, meaning it is no longer judged to be failing.

But school bosses have been advised to raise levels of achievement, improve the quality of teaching and review the assessment system to ensure the school continues to improve.

North Cliffe School has 45 children on its roll. It provides education for children with moderate learning difficulties and some pupils have additional behavioural and emotional issues.

Inspectors, led by Garry(correct) Jones, said: “The pupils recognise that their school has improved significantly and parents spoken to confirm that they are pleased with the education now provided.

“Pupils commented that behaviour has improved and that, as a result, the school is a more enjoyable pace to attend.

“Behaviour is now good and there is a calm and ordered atmosphere around the school and its grounds.”

They added: “The achievement of pupils is now satisfactory and this reflects the successful drive to improve the quality of teaching.”

But they said: “The system for academic guidance is less well developed than pastoral guidance and is satisfactory.”

The school is run by the governing body.

Inspectors added: “The governors have also reviewed their role and, in addition to providing support and guidance, are beginning to develop the role of critical friend. The school has satisfactory capacity to improve and currently provides satisfactory value for money.”