THERE is work to be done at Dines Green community Primary School after findings from its latest Ofsted report are revealed.

The report found the school requires improvement, down from a verdict of good at the previous inspection, but the headteacher says action is being taken.

It stated the leadership and management of the school, quality of teaching and achievement of pupils all require improvement.

The English skills of students came under particular scrutiny, with the report saying 'progress in writing is slower than in reading and mathematics', and 'teachers do not teach spelling, punctuation and grammar consistently well to all age groups'.

Headteacher Sara Longmire says initiatives are in place to improve reading skills. She also says, as she only took over in September, the impact of what the children have learnt has not yet been truly felt.

Mrs Longmire said: "We are working from the ground up to get it right.

"Everyone has embraced the changes that have been made here already and that will continue.

"We hold reading mornings and have guest readers come into the school on a weekly basis to read with the children.We have recently brought 2,000 books into the school as well.

"The overall result of requires improvement for the school is disappointing but we are already clear in how to address this and ensure that children leave the school having the best start in life.

"Following initiatives that were introduced in September, the children have not yet had time to show the impact of what they have learnt".

It wasn't all bad news, as Ofsted found the behaviour and safety of pupils, and the early years provision to be good.

Mrs Longmire said: "We are thrilled that the early years classes have been recognised for their good Ofsted grade.

"So while we are not quite there in terms of Ofsted, I am immensely proud of the children and their behaviour. "They are well mannered, take good care of each other and because they enjoy coming to school, their above average attendance is a reflection of this."

The report also praised the experience and expertise of the headteacher and her deputy, and found that the governing body is working closely and effectively with senior leaders to strengthen teaching and learning in the school.