A MELKSHAM primary school rated ‘inadequate’ earlier this year by Ofsted is on the right track to improving, the education watchdog has said.

River Mead in Lowbourne is being monitored by Ofsted after receiving the lowest rating a school can get with inspectors finding some pupils were more than two years behind in their learning.

However, it added that since joining The Mead Academy Trust last September the school was making considerable improvements.

Following a progress check last month, inspector Peter Limm said in a short space of time “there has been a very encouraging beginning in remedying the weaknesses identified in the last inspection”.

His inspection letter also states pupils in early years and those with learning difficulties and disabilities are receiving better support and as a result making good progress. Pupils who had been struggling with maths are also developing their skills more quickly and with greater confidence.

He added: “They are introducing a number of rigorous and robust initiatives to ensure that improvement plans are focused tightly on those aspects that require most rapid change. The plans helpfully link to challenging, but realistic, priorities for improving achievement.”

Headteacher of the school Nicki Henderson has welcomed Mr Limm’s comments and is pleased their commitment has been recognised. A second monitoring visit is also expected next month.

She said: “We are delighted that Ofsted were so positive about the continued improvement journey of River Mead School following their first monitoring visit since the inspection in January.

“They said they were hugely impressed by all that has already been done and all that we plan to do to secure improvement in those areas that need most rapid change.

“We would like to thank too the parents and carers who have responded so enthusiastically to the changes and who have taken such pride in the achievements at River Mead School.”