'Pivotal' time for school with longstanding issues
Furness Education TrustA school judged as "requiring improvement" by Ofsted inspectors for years is at a "pivotal" point, the new trust running it said.
The education watchdog this week again rated Walney School in Barrow as "requires improvement" across all categories it inspects - the same rating it has had since 2018.
Concerns highlighted included high levels of absence, poor behaviour and inconsistencies in how the curriculum is delivered, leading to some pupils falling behind.
Furness Education Trust, which took over the secondary school in January, said it was "not daunted" by the challenges and inspectors had recognised the effective changes they had already made in a short time.
Ofsted inspectors said the school's ambition for pupils had historically not been high enough, but that had started changing with the introduction of a new curriculum.
"Historic and longstanding weaknesses are now being addressed. Recent changes are beginning to improve how well pupils learn the new curriculum," the report said.
Furness Education TrustIt added lessons were sometimes disrupted by poor behaviour, but more pupils "live up to expectations" on their conduct.
"New leaders have moved swiftly to bring about much-needed change," inspectors said.
"Although staff, including early career teachers, feel well supported by leaders, there is more to do in gaining the full confidence of parents and the wider community."
'Energised by challenge'
The school, which has about 500 pupils, had been part of the Fells Trust until the organisation was dissolved by the Department for Education last year.
Allison Redshaw, acting headteacher, said the report made it clear that Walney School was "on a positive trajectory", while acknowledging the areas it still needed to improve on.
"We are not daunted by these challenges we are energised," she said.
"This is a pivotal time for Walney School. The foundations are being laid for lasting change and we are confident in a stronger, brighter future for every child in our care."
Simon Laheney, the trust's CEO, said the inspection had come at a time when they were "still getting to know" the school.
"We know that together we have much to do and I am delighted with the progress we have made in the short time since."