STAFFING and recruitment issues were at the heart of Winton Art and Media College’s decline.

That’s the belief of those now responsible for bringing the school up to scratch.

Following an Ofsted report placing the failing school into special measures, senior staff and council leaders have moved to reassure parents and staff about the future prospects for their children’s education.

Roger Allen, who is also headteacher of girls’ school Glenmoor, which has seen a marked improvement in its own results, said: “It is a factual report. We are not denying that.

“But we have already implemented measures to counter these issues, which was noted in Ofsted’s report.

“There will be a meeting at the beginning of next term for parents to explain what we are doing.

“For parents who have children coming in next year, I would like to say that things will be a whole lot better. It will not be completely fixed but they can have confidence the school will be on track.

“We understand parents are concerned – it is natural – but that is our assurance.

“This is a journey of continuing improvement. It is a good time to come into the school. We now have a lot of very committed staff, dedicated to achieving change.”

Dr Jonathan Edwards, chairman of the federated governing body at both Winton and Glenmoor schools said: “The governing body is very committed to seeing rapid change and I will be encouraging all the governing bodies to become more involved with the school.”

He added: “There has already been a perceived change in terms of pupil behaviour. That has been very noticeable.”

Di Mitchell, service director for children’s learning and engagement in Bournemouth: “I believe that we are well-placed to ensure that we have the right people in place to ensure rapid improvement.”

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