By Hayley Robinson

A damning report of a school’s progression and teaching has led to it being paired with another school in a bid to improve standards.

Ofsted inspectors have placed Milton Court Primary School in special measures as it was not doing well and pupils weren’t acquiring new skills and knowledge quickly enough.

As a result the head teacher of Kemsley Primary School, Angela Edwards, has been appointed executive head teacher and will over see the running of both schools from March 31.

The Ofsted report says: “Improvements in attainment and pupils’ achievement have been hampered because of the school’s prolonged and inaccurate view of its own performance.

“Monitoring of the school’s outcomes and over-positive self-evaluations failed to identify the urgent action required to bring about sustained improvement.
“Turbulent staffing has contributed to the impeded success of improvement plans. The governing body insufficiently holds the school’s leadership and management to account.”

A new governing body will also be appointed as part of the federation which was suggested by both schools and agreed to by Kent County Council following public consultation.

Advisory head teacher Lucy Nutt, who started at the school in Brewery Road, just weeks before the inspection, said the school is taking “robust action” to improve standards.

Miss Nutt said: “The Ofsted inspection did note that there were a number of strengths at the school, which we are pleased with. However, there are areas where we can do better. The school has already moved forward since the inspection.

“We have been working with Kent County Council to address areas where the school can improve. We recognise where we can do better and are taking robust action to change.

“We are closely monitoring the progress children are making through the school.”

Finding out that Milton Court Primary School had been placed in special measures did not come as a surprise to parents.

Hannah Seager, 28, whose two children James, 10, and Jack, seven, attend the school, said: “We’re a bit disappointed that it happened. We’ve been let down but at the same time it wasn’t a shock.”

Lesley Boardman, 31, whose children Thalia, 10, and Kai, five, also attend the school, believes the failings are due to staffing issues.

She said: “The school’s had so many different members of staff. My daughter joined the school in Year 1, she’s now in Year 5 and there’s been three different heads in that time.

“There’s no continuity of staff.”

William Shanks’ eight-year-old daughter Bethany (pictured) only started at the school eight months ago.

He said: “I wasn’t happy when I found out. Bethany’s not been at the school that long so yes, I am worried but I’m glad they’re doing something about it. Hopefully it will resolve the problems.”

Rachel Webster, 29, whose children Sian, 10, and Tyler, seven, attend the school, praised the school.

Miss Webster said: “My son needed help with reading and they were very supportive. They made provision for him so they’ve been good in that way.”

To view the full Ofsted report visit www.ofsted.gov.uk