A WEST Cumbrian primary has been found to 'require improvement' by the education watchdog, after experiencing a 'period of staffing uncertainty and change'.

Broughton Moor Primary School in Broughton Moor was given the rating ‘requires improvement’ by Ofsted following an inspection on November 14 and 15.

The school had previously been rated as ‘Good’ at a prior full inspection back in July 2014 and a short inspection in July 2017.

Despite being found ‘good’ in the categories of 'behaviour and attitudes', 'personal development' and 'early years provision', the school was found to require improvement in leadership and management and the quality of education, giving it an overall grade of ‘requires improvement’.

The report acknowledged that pupils at Broughton Primary School were ‘friendly and polite’ and said that they were enthusiastic about their learning.

The report said: “Pupils enjoy coming to Broughton Moor Primary School. They enjoy strong relationships with adults in school.

“Staff know pupils well and listen attentively to them. Pupils feel valued, cared for and happy. They know that staff will help them if they have any worries or concerns.”

Inspectors found that the school has constructed a broad and well-ordered curriculum from the early years to the end of Year 6.

However, inspectors found that ‘the school has experienced a period of staffing uncertainty and change’.

It said: “Some staff have not had the support that they need to deliver the curriculum well. Furthermore, gaps and misconceptions in pupils’ learning in some subjects have not been consistently identified and addressed.

“This has hindered some pupils from building knowledge securely over time. Conversely, children in the early years have enjoyed a period of greater stability. They successfully acquire the knowledge that they need to be ready for the next stage of education.”

Inspectors found that the school has ‘experienced a turbulent time recently’.

The report said: “Changes in staffing and governance have meant that the school has not been as effective as it should be.

“During this time, governors have not sufficiently held the school to account for the quality of education that pupils receive. This has contributed to some weaknesses in the effectiveness of the curriculum.”

The school was contacted for comment.