A PRIMARY school headteacher has said he “will not rest” until education at the site has improved.

Ofsted has told bosses at Ardleigh St Mary’s Primary School the education establishment requires improvement following a two-day inspection.

Pupils were hailed for their behaviour and heaped praise upon their school experience themselves.

But concerns were raised about school leaders not routinely checking on what the youngsters have learned across the curriculum in Ardleigh.

Ofsted inspectors Bozena Laraway and Nick Rudman noted work to improve the school had only recently begun and time is needed to see the results.

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The site was rated good in its early years provision, personal development and behaviour and attitudes.

It was ranked as requiring improvement overall, however, after scoring this rating in its quality of education and leadership and management.

Headteacher Nathan Kempster said his staff remain committed to ensuring all pupils receive the best possible education.

He said: “Prior to and following our recent Ofsted inspection, actions are being taken that will ensure improvements are made, both immediately and in securing the future success of the school.

“However, it is important to note there are many positives in the recent report.

“We will use this as a base from which to build improvement.

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“Ardleigh St Mary’s is a school with a long history at the heart of the community, where children thrive and staff care beyond caring.

“We will continue to care for and educate our children in the way we have always done, but will not rest until we reach the level of education we are all striving for.”

The inspectors stated pupils enjoy coming to school, with them being told by youngsters the site is “special”.

The report reads: “Parents are positive about the school. They know about the changes made by the new leadership.

“Pupils behave well during lessons and around the school. They are respectful to each other and courteous to visitors.”

It added: “Leaders want to construct a high-quality curriculum that builds pupils’ knowledge and skills over time.

“However, this is not in place for all subjects.

“As a result, pupils do not have enough opportunities to build on their learning, and their achievement is too variable across subjects.”