TEACHERS at a troubled village school will link up with a neighbouring school to share ideas as part of an action plan to get it out of special measures.

Stella Sudds, head teacher at Trottiscliffe Primary School near West Malling, has forged a link with nearby Ryarsh Primary School in an attempt to improve teaching standards.

Mrs Sudds, who was appointed in January, is also planning a "relaunch" of the school's image with a new badge and sign. It's an attempt to draw a line under the last two years at the school, which were marred by rows between the parents, governors and a former head teacher.

An Ofsted report, published last week, said that the school has not improved enough since its last inspection, in October 2000, when it was found to have "serious weaknesses".

Mrs Sudds said: "An Ofsted inspection was a good way to start because it has given me an idea of where improvements are needed and the inspectors offered support and advice.

"Since I arrived I have been working on rebuilding the team and creating a new philosophy and aims for the school."

Following the rifts between parents and governors last year many children were withdrawn from the school. It has only 49 pupils this year, out of a possible roll of 100.

But the school is over-subscribed for a new intake in September.Mrs Sudds stressed: "We are going to have a look at the curriculum because it was very narrow in the past. One of the things I will do is use the environment outside. There is so much here that the children can learn from.

"We are also linking up with Ryarsh Primary School for new ideas. When professionals work together they spark off each others ideas. It will mean we can improve and share our successes."