Primary school out of special measures

A primary school has been brought out of special measures by Ofsted inspectors almost two years after inspectors ranked it as failing.

St John's CofE School in Blakebrook, Kidderminster, began to struggle after being changed from a first school to a primary in 2007, and in May 2009 was placed in special measures.

Inspectors reported that new headteacher Lawence Gittins, who joined the school last Easter, had been instrumental in leading the drive for improvement.

Mr Gittins said today: "Everyone has worked hard and they deserve this success and recognition. We are determined to continue the work to improve the school."

He said the school was not complacent and everyone involved realised there was still work to do.

Areas highlighted for further improvement were to continue to raise standards, to further strength the quality of teaching and improve the effectiveness and impact of the school's leadership.

Lead inspector Ken Buxton graded the school as 'satisfactory' with many good elements.