CHARMOUTH Primary School 'requires improvement', according to the latest Ofsted inspection report released this week.

Standards have fallen by two grades at the school, which was judged the top grading of 'outstanding' in its previous inspection in 2007.

But the inspectors recognised the efforts of new headteacher Gillian Morris to make improvements.

Chairman of the school governors Melanie Harvey said: “Although I am disappointed with the findings of Ofsted I believe it to be a fair and considered judgement.

“As a governing body we are very pleased with our appointment of Gillian Morris at the start of the academic year and are impressed as to how quickly she has been able to identify a need for change to improve progress and attainment of the pupils of Charmouth School.

“We will continue to support the School Leadership team with the appropriate actions and were pleased that Ofsted recognised the plans already in place to improve our school.

“It reflects the dedication and hard work of both the teaching and non-teaching staff who are working together as a team under the strong leadership of Mrs Morris to ensure that the children under their care receive the best education possible.”

The report went out to parents this week and can be viewed from Monday on the school website charmouth.dorset.sch.uk and Ofsted website ofsted.gov.uk.

The report said: “The new headteacher has quickly identified aspects of the school that require further development to raise achievement and enhance teaching. She has begun to make the necessary improvements, with the increasing involvement of the governing body.”

Mrs Morris thanked staff, children, governors and volunteers for their positive approach and support.

She said: “Furthermore, the inspectors agreed with our own judgements of our school at this point in time and were confident in our ability to continue to improve in line with our overall school vision and plans.”