A FAILING Blackburn primary school has been placed in special measures for the second time.

And government inspectors have warned that Intack Primary School could be closed in 12 months unless it improves.

The primary was placed into special measures, the tag given to schools failing to provide an acceptable standard of education, 10 years ago.

It came out of special measures in 1998, but has been placed back following an inspection of the school in March.

Under new government legislation unveiled this year, the Whitebirk Road school now has just 12 months to produce and act upon an action plan to head off the threat of closure. Its 280-plus pupils are performing well below the national average in maths, science and English, say inspectors.

Linda McLanachan joined Intack as head after Easter and has worked in a number of Lancashire schools which have come out of special measures.

She said: "Intack is a lovely school and the children deserve a great future.

"There is real dedication and commitment here and we are going to work hard together as a team to bring the school out of special measures."

Union leaders said Ofsted's verdict was "harsh", but blamed a top-heavy intake of pupils with behavioural problems and learning difficulties for its slide.

Simon Jones, NUT executive member for Lancashire, claimed Ofsted's assessment was wrong.

He added: "The judgement by Ofsted I think is unfair and is not a reflection on the staff who have worked hard to make improvements at the school.

"However, the school has fallen victim of an overload of pupils with various needs.

"Other schools have turned these pupils away and I think Blackburn with Darwen Council has to look at a fairer balance across all schools in the borough."

Executive member for education, Coun Dave Hollings, today insisted work was already under way to ensure the school would survive.

He added: "Results have not been great and there has been a problem of stability and management and leadership.

"But we have an experienced new headteacher and we are working with her and the governors on an action plan to continue the improvements made.