POOR attendance and below average reading, writing and maths standards has led to a junior school losing its 'good' rating.

When Ofsted inspectors visited The Alderton Junior School in Loughton in November, they unearthed a series of faults that had them judge the school 'requires improvement' in all key areas.

In addition to a board of governors which was not effectively holding teachers to account, pupils were often given work that was either too hard or too easy.

The report reads: "Mathematics teaching is too focused on pupils practising the basic calculation skills to develop fluency. There is little evidence of pupils being provided with activities to develop their reasoning skills.

"The proportion of pupils attaining the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics was below average in 2016 and 2017. However, the difference reduced in 2017."

A small group of pupils were allowed to push the Alderton Hall Lane school's attendance below the national average.

"Poor attendance is hindering the progress of these pupils," the report adds.

There were some positive areas however.

The appointment of new deputy head Dellian Jean-Marie has strengthened leadership, allowing a new behaviour strategy to start making an impact.

Sports premium funding has been used to give pupils two hours of sport a week with a qualified coach and safeguarding arrangements were seen to be effective.

The report continues: "Classrooms are bright and stimulating learning environments, pupils are positive and teachers check pupil's work carefully "Pupils say that bullying happens infrequently, and this is supported by the school records.

"Pupils feel listened to and have confidence that adults will deal with any problems they might have."

Headteacher Laura Fox said: “We had recognised the school required improvement prior to the Ofsted inspection and begun to implement a number of changes as part of a clear and robust school improvement plan.

“Despite a disappointing overall Ofsted rating, we were pleased the report recognised the strong progress being made by pupils in reading and writing, as well as the positive impact of our new approach to behaviour management."

“We are committed to all of our pupils achieving excellent outcomes and staff are working tirelessly to ensure the school’s rating improves."

“It was therefore very encouraging to hear that ‘clear progress’ was identified following a local authority Ofsted progress review last week.”