George Salter Academy put in special measures as staff 'unaware' of how to protect pupils from extremism

George Salter Academy in Davey Road was ranked inadequate by inspection chiefs in three areas of the latest report, with school leaders criticised over leadership and management.

The report states that personal development, behaviour and welfare is inadequate with one of the reasons being that 'most of the pupils who spoke with inspectors did not fully understand the risks posed by groups or individuals who hold extremist values, views and beliefs'.

Click here to download the report

Leadership was also labelled as 'weak at all levels', with the report saying that 'as a matter of urgency' improvements were required.

It comes after the school was awarded £599,000 funding to upgrade it's sports facilities last year following £12million of building work.

The report states: "As a matter of urgency, ensure all safeguarding policies and practices meet current government guidelines and statutory requirements.

"Training should be provided for all staff in safeguarding, child protection and the potential risks of radicalisation and extremism."

It continued: "Her Majesty's Chief Inspector is of the opinion that this school requires special measures because it is failing to give its pupils an acceptable standard of education and the persons responsible for leading, managing or governing the school are not demonstrating the capacity to secure the necessary improvement in the school."

The inspection was carried out by a team of inspectors fronted by Peter Humphries between March 2 and 3.

Three areas of effectiveness were rated as good with pupils praised for making 'good academic progress due to the good teaching they receive'.

A school spokesman said: "We are pleased that the report highlights that the teaching and learning at the school are good, and that it recognises the quality of the sixth form's leadership and achievement. Ofsted also finds that the outcomes for students are good, demonstrating that children are receiving a rounded education.

"However, we do acknowledge that despite having strict safeguarding policies and procedures in place across the trust, there were instances where these had not been followed at the school. This is not good enough – the wellbeing of students is our utmost priority.

"The sponsor has taken decisive action to address the concerns raised. We immediately appointed a new, highly-experienced Executive Headteacher and a new governing body, who are together working through a comprehensive action plan. Measures put in place include additional training for staff and the tightening of all our procedures and policies.

"The academy looks forward to welcoming inspectors back to demonstrate that the issues identified have been addressed thoroughly."

The school has 1,220 pupils ranging from ages 11 to 19.