A PRIMARY school is said to be on a more stable footing after going through a turbulent period which led to a fall in standards.

St Paul’s CE Primary has failed to have its “requires improvement” tag lifted ­— but the government’s education watchdog inspector found that recent actions taken by senior leadership are improving the school ­and that there is a “clear understanding of what needs to be done”.

The school was praised for its early years provision and the personal development, behaviour and welfare of pupils ­— both which were graded as good.

Children were said to enjoy lessons and “The Haven”, a classroom to help and support vulnerable pupils, was singled out for praise in raising aspirations so much that pupils attendance and punctuality had improved. Behaviour of pupils was described as good

The school, in Porritt Street, has been in the requires improvement category since May 2017.

“St Paul’s has suffered form a turbulent past. It has had many changes in staff, which led to poor outcomes for pupils,”reported inspectors, “However, there is now an improving picture of greater stability.”

Inspectors found that gaps in pupils’ writing skills because of previously weak teaching have not been “fully” addressed and as a result not enough pupils reached the expected standard.

Progress made by pupils was described as “not good”, although it is improving and the quality of teaching was said to be “not “consistently strong”.

But Ofsted added many teachers were said to have strong knowledge of their subject and plan interesting activities to enthuse pupils.

Ofsted inspectors stated: “High levels of staff changes in the past have slowed the rate of improvement. The headteacher and her senior leadership team now have an accurate and realistic picture of the school’s performance. Together, they have brought an ambitious culture to the school and begun to tackle the most pressing areas that require improvement.”

Governors have undergone training and new governors recruited and now said to have a “good understanding of the strengths and weaknesses” of the school.

“They are regular visitors into school. They have improved their understanding of information on pupils’ achievement, including that of different groups,” reported Ofsted.

Pupils with special educational needs were also said to be making good progress.

expectations, indicating the effectiveness of the school’s inclusive practice.

The school’s early years provision was described as good, with children entering with skills below those typical for their age but thanks to good teaching many being well prepared for Year One.

Ofsted inspectors reported: “Children’s behaviour and attitudes to learning are good. They are confident in exploring activities indoors and outside.”

Parents are also involved in their children’s education.