STAFF at a school say they are ‘100 per cent committed’ to improving teaching after school inspectors deemed their response to critical reports as ‘inadequate’.

Highfield Primary School in Chorley was placed in ‘special measures’ last November in a bid to improve standards.

However, a further inspection from Ofsted last month said progress at the Wright Street school since being put in special measures was not acceptable.

Ofsted inspector Ruth James’ report said: “The quality of teaching is not improving rapidly enough to ensure that pupils make the sustained, good progress necessary to catch up and reach levels appropriate to their age.”

Lancashire’s education authority has supported the school by sending in advisers and termly action plans have been implemented by subject leaders for assessment, numeracy, literacy, teaching and learning, curriculum and special needs.

Parents picking up their children at the school on Monday expressed support for the school and its staff.

Lynn Taylor, of Wright Street, said: “I’ve got a boy and a girl here and I’m completely satisfied with the way they are taught.

“They are very happy and the staff do a great job.”

A 23-year-old father, who has three children at Highfield, said: “I’ve got confidence in the school’s staff and the way my kids are being educated. It’s a very good school.”

Chair of governors at Highfield Primary School, Andy Purcell, said: “The headteacher and her team are one hundred per cent committed to making sure that the quality of the teaching continues to improve by working with advisers to ensure our children receive the education they deserve.

“While we accept that there is scope for improvement and development, Ofsted have acknowledged that the pupils are polite and courteous and that their behaviour is excellent.”