A HIGH school has been told to improve following an Ofsted inspection.

Norden High School and Sports College in Rishton was told standards were not high enough in English and maths.

The school received a grading of Requires Improvement, which is below Good but higher than the lowest rating Inadequate. A previous inspection 16 months ago also found the same rating.

Interim checks found the school was taking ‘effective action’ to improve including appointments to 12 new middle leadership posts.

Headteacher Tim Mitchell said they were in full agreement with the latest findings and said some changes would take time.

Inspector Liz Godman said: “At the end of Year 11 in 2013, standards were below average, including in English and mathematics.

“Detailed information kept by the school shows attainment is improving and that this is most marked in English.”

She also said the school’s plans for further improvement were “too extensive” for focus.

However the senior team was said to “provide strong leadership with a sharp emphasis on improving teaching and achievement.”

Headteacher Tim Mitchell said ‘We are totally in agreement with the findings.

“We acknowledge that there is still work to be done, but are confident that with continued hard work and dedication from staff, students and Governors we will fulfill our goal of becoming an outstanding school.”