HEATHFIELD Community School's headteacher says issues highlighted in a "disappointing" Ofsted report are being addressed.

Inspectors downgraded Heathfield from 'outstanding' on their previous visit to 'requires improvement' following a pre-Christmas check.

Their report expressed concerns at "poor" behaviour by a minority of pupils who make "inappropriate comments", while some "hold intolerant views". Some pupils "experience discrimination" from peers.

Lateness and inappropriate language can go unchallenged and some pupils "are in the habit of

missing lessons".

While pupils in the special centre for those with autism spectrum disorder achieve well, children with special educational needs and/or disabilities do not have such a positive experience, although leaders are addressing the problem.

Pupils are well-supported in creative and performing arts subjects, helping develop confidence.

But in other subjects, curriculum planning does not build well on primary school learning and teachers' expectations of what pupils can learn are sometimes low.

Pupils get involved in extra-curricular activities that help provide personal, social and health education.

Insufficient emphasis is given to teaching about different religions.

"This limits the extent to which pupils leave school confident to work and live alongside others," says the report.

Safeguarding arrangements are "effective" and staff get help to pupils and families where needed.

Headteacher Peter Hoare said: "Although we are disappointed with this (report), the process was very thorough and fair.

"Although it is certainly not an excuse, there is no doubt that last term we were significantly impacted by Covid-19 with a number of staff and pupils absent through sickness and self-isolation.

"It’s been a tough time for everyone at Heathfield and the wider community and the new grading reflects this.

"Whilst the report highlights areas for improvement, it also acknowledges a number of key strengths – notably the behaviour of most pupils during lessons, our commitment to the arts, the wide range of extra-curricular activities on offer, and our effective safeguarding system.

"We know there is work to do to address the areas for improvement, including the lack of consistency in applying the school behaviour policy and the need for all staff to follow the same protocol.

"But it is reassuring that inspectors noted the steps already being taken in partnership with the local authority.

"The local authority, governors and myself have already started the process of implementing a plan to ensure we support our students and staff in securing greater consistency across the curriculum.

"I recognise this report will be disappointing and unsettling, but I am confident we are already taking positive steps to ensure children receive the high standard of education they deserve."