Aberhafesp Primary School placed in special measures

A school has been placed in special measures after an inspection report found it lacked "a clear direction and a sense of purpose".

Aberhafesp Primary School near Newtown, Powys, was discovered to have shortcomings in leadership and teaching.

It follows an inspection by education watchdog Estyn.

The council said the report found some good features, but a significant number were "adequate or unsatisfactory".

Aberhafesp Primary is one of 11 primary schools with fewer than 30 pupils which is earmarked for closure by Powys council.

An action plan is being drawn up to address the school's shortcomings, while Estyn will monitor its progress.

The council said the inspection report found some good features, but a significant number were "adequate or unsatisfactory".

Chair of the governors at Aberhafesp primary, Humphrey Davies said: "This report is very disappointing and concerning.

"The school governors and staff of the school are fully committed to working with the council in order to secure the required improvements with an immediate focus on improving learning and teaching.

"We realise that a great deal of effort will be required but I'm confident that with the support of staff, pupils, parents, governors and the council it will be possible to improve the school for the benefit of the whole school community."

Part of the Estyn report said: "The school gives unsatisfactory value for money in terms pupils' outcomes, provision and strategic planning."

Focussing on leadership at the school, the report added: "The school lacks a clear direction and a sense of purpose that is necessary to promote and sustain improvements."

Powys council revealed the names of 11 small schools on Thursday that it intends to close as part of a review.

The review has been brought forward from next year because the council said the schools were no longer viable.