Gable Hall School in Corringham has announced a plan for rapid improvement after its most recent Ofsted Inspection.

The plan has been put in place to address the findings of the school’s fourth full Ofsted inspection in six years, which graded it as ‘requiring improvement’.

The plan aims to fast track and strengthen actions which began in September 2017 but were not complete by the time of the inspection. The school intends to raise the achievement of vulnerable groups such as low ability children, students with special educational needs, disadvantaged students at the school as well as increase parental engagement and positivity.

The Government watchdog visited the school on the 22 and 23 of May and reportedL “In 2017, Year 11 pupils made less progress than other pupils nationally”, that “disadvantaged pupils do not make good progress at the school” and that there was a “minority of parents who are not positive about the quality of provision” for lower ability students at the school.

The report recognises that “safeguarding is effective”, that the sixth Form is ‘Good’ and has “improved since the last inspection”, that “bullying is rare and dealt with well”, that “teachers typically have strong subject knowledge” and that leaders are “determined to raise standards in the school.”

Mr Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, said: “I am obviously disappointed by the report but Gable Hall is part of a strong Multi Academy Trust which is succeeding in the serious business of raising achievement and aspirations for children and young people in our area and I am confident that it has the talent and determination to turn things around quickly.

“Their track record for rapid improvement with the 6th Form Centre, at Corringham Primary, and more recently at Hassenbrook Academy, bears this out."

Clive Stokes, principal of the school, which is popular for its Performing Arts status said: "It is true that this school requires improvement and since the summer of 2017, we have been vigorously implementing measures to tackle the issues raised in this report.

“We will seek external validation for the improvements we make so that parents know that the actions we are taking are making the visible difference we need.

“We are delighted that our students feel safe in school and that the Ortu 6th Form is ‘Good’ in all aspects”.

Mr Robb Harman, chair of governors, said: “We will make good use of parental and wider support to ensure that rapid improvement is visible to all our students and parents and we welcome the support of all our stakeholders in this vital improvement journey."