GOVERNMENT inspectors have placed a village school near Droitwich Spa on special measures because of poor teaching standards.

Wychbold First and Nursery School, in School Lane, has been told to improve standards in most subjects following a visit by the education watchdog, Ofsted.

The inspectors' report said that while attitudes to learning were good and children are polite and friendly, teaching and curriculum cover were not up to scratch.

Staff and governors are now working closely with the Local Education Authority (LEA) to draw up an action plan and parents have been informed by letter.

Ofsted will now keep in close contact with the parish school until the problems have been tackled.

Headteacher Julia Harwood said: "The inspectors recognised that the staff work as a team and support each other.

"They described a well-ordered environment in which pupils can learn effectively.

"These characteristics will help us to continue with the improvement of our school and the standards children achieve."

The school's chair of governors, the Rev Dennis Wight, was keen to point out that inspectors found the children to be motivated and well-behaved.

He added: "It is intended that developments will happen swiftly and effectively.

"The governing body gives its whole-hearted support to the headteacher and staff in the engagement of their work."