A CRISIS school whose headteacher resigned after a 'disappointing' OFSTED report faces a fight for its future as inspectors plan a second visit.

Former head of St Wilfrid's RC Primary School in Preston Stephen Winders quit in December a month after OFSTED came into his classrooms.

Their report demanded an emergency action plan be drawn up to solve problems.

In a letter to parents Mr Winders said: "I'm writing to let you know I have resigned. I was disappointed with the report which I've seen in draft.

"I believe the school will benefit. My departure is sudden but will allow new leadership to initiate and develop strategies needed to take the school forward."

One parent said: "I was gobsmacked when I heard the news of him resigning. My son was bullied but Mr Winders dealt with it and was very supportive."

Her Majesty's Inspectors plan to visit the school to give a second opinion but it's likely they'd agree with the initial inspection.

John Love of OFSTED said: "I can't remember a case where they disagreed."

Under special measures the school would have to be put on a list, have it's action plan checked by the Secretary of State for Education and be constantly monitored.

Mr Love said: "It's not a hit squad. It's a case of stepping up inspections to see how things are progressing."

A Lancashire County Council spokesman said: "The authority is still providing support and advice.

"We worked quickly to help find an acting headteacher and the full-time post will be advertised soon."

Chair of Governors Father James Henderson would not comment on the report or the resignation other than to say: "Everything is being dealt with."

Parents are expected to receive the OFSTED report in the coming weeks.

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