DAMNING criticism of Skerton High School by government inspectors has been slammed as callous and unfair.

School governor, Lancaster City Councillor and Skerton resident Charles Grattan has hit out following a HMI inspection, saying: "No-one likes being classed as a failure".

While the official report into the school is not due for another five weeks, head teacher John Strivens says the initial feedback from the inspection has been 'stark'.

He says it is too early to talk about new measures at the school but an action plan will be drawn up in consultation with the local education authority.

"Until we see the detailed report, we cannot speculate about a response," says Mr Strivens.

But Cllr Grattan has attacked the inspectors for being 'totally unfair'.

"Skerton High does exceptionally well in the circumstances. It is in one of the most deprived social and economic areas and it is totally unfair to be so negative, pointing out certain areas which the school has no control over," says Cllr Grattan.

"All three city councillors for the ward fully support Skerton High and applaud the hard work that teachers do."

A Lancashire County Council spokesman admitted the school had received a "very adverse inspection report from the HMI team" and faced many challenges and difficulties.

"The LEA is working together with the school, governing body and the DFES to deal with these difficulties."

The spokesman added Skerton High School pupils achieved very good exam results, aged 16, some of which would not have been gained elsewhere.