PARENTS of children attending The Corsham School are being invited to share their concerns at a meeting with the new headteacher after the latest Ofsted report downgraded their official rating to Requires Improvement.

According to the report, which was compiled over two days in March and published yesterday, the effectiveness of leadership and management, the quality of teaching, learning and assessment and the outcome for pupils were all graded as requires improvement and Julie Mulholland of Katherine Park says more needs to be done.

"My daughter Zara was coming home distraught saying she wasn't learning anything at school and it was rare that she got homework," the mother-of-two and former teacher said. "At first I didn't know whether to believe her but after talking to some of her friends it soon became clear that they were all in a similar position.

"I have made so many sacrifices like so many other parents who send their children to The Corsham School and have felt let down that the school finds itself in this unacceptable predicament. We are quite fortunate because the education Zara received in Hong Kong is about four years ahead of England and Zara has got good grades but this involves other children as well.

"My daughter finishes her GCSE's at the school next year and she is feeling quite scared about it so we are doing some extra work at home to help build her confidence up but I shouldn't have to be doing this. We all hope that the new headteacher can turn this around."

To quell any concerns raised by the report, which highlights a lack of consistent teaching, a lack of challenge, underachievement but good behaviour and a well-led sixth form, the new headteacher Rod Bell sent letters to all the parents explaining his ambitions for the school and invited them to an open parents meeting on Thursday, May 25 at 6.30pm.

He said: "It is obviously very disappointing for all members of staff that the outcome of the inspection has found that the school requires improvement and will undoubtedly be concerning for you as parents as well.

"However, it must be said that all staff in school are completely committed to addressing the areas that need improvement and are steadfast in providing the best education for the students of The Corsham School.

"I have lived and breathed an outstanding school and I feel very confident that we will return the school back to its former glory. I ask that you keep your confidence with your school. Although disappointing, the Ofsted report reinforces my vision and underlines my energy to make this school one of the very best in the country."

Anyone wishing to attend the open meeting should confirm their attendance on 01249 713284 or reception@corsham.wilts.sch.uk.