OFSTED inspectors told staff at a Darwen school that it ‘requires improvements’.

The achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, and leadership and management were all said to be areas in need of improvement at St Joseph’s RC Primary, in Limes Avenue.

The report said there was “not enough teaching that was consistently good” and “pupils’ progress in improving their writing was slower than their progress in reading and mathematics”.

The reported also pointed out that “teachers’ marking didn’t help pupils improve their work”.

Headteacher Ann O’Brien said a new tracking system had been introduced to enable closer checks to be made on pupils’ progress. She said: “Ofsted use school tables from the last three years and, given our poor year six SATs results 14 months ago, it was in many ways inevitable.

“We are pleased the inspector recognised the significant work that has been done in school, particularly in the last 12 months, and also that the safety of the children was good. Our children and staff work very hard to make St Joseph’s even better.”

The report praised pupils’ attitudes and the above-average attendance. It also said the school’s leaders and governors worked well with the local authority.

Coun Dave Harling, executive member for regeneration, said the council would work with the school to improve. There are some positives and staff will work on what needs to be done.”