A primary school in Suffolk has gone from being rated as Good by Ofsted to Requires Improvement.

Otley Primary School has been rated as Requires Improvement by Ofsted, for the first time since it opened. 

Much of the report focused on the fact that there had been ‘significant turbulence in leadership and staffing’ since the previous inspection, with several of the staff being new. 

The report states that this has ‘created weakness in provision over time’. 

It did however state that current senior leaders are bringing much-needed improvements and know what they need to do, with many of the changes either new or not fully embedded yet. 

This means that pupils, including those in early years, do not learn and achieve as well as they should. 

The report does however praise students, stating that ‘pupils are enthusiastic and keen to learn’ and that ‘most pupils behave well’ with older pupils being good role models for younger pupils. 

Safeguarding was seen to be ‘effective’ as well by Ofsted, with appropriate checks on staff and staff training in place.  

It also praised the leaders for attendance, safeguarding, SEND and behaviour and how closely their work with the vulnerable pupils and their families. 

Attendance and behaviour has also improved this year. 

Hannah Rigby, interim executive headteacher, said: "We are disappointed with the overalll Ofsted Rating and will continue with the work already in place to address those weaknesses identified.

"Whilst we do not dispute the overall rating, there are many wonderful aspects of the school, which we celebrate and nurture, and which the inspector also reported.

"Two of the five areas, including behaviours and attitudes and personal development, were graded as good. These are areas we are extremely proud of and we recognise the importance for our children to be happy, safe and ready to learn.

"The report also highlighted other significant achievements including the fact our pupils access a broad curriculum, our SEND students get timely support and that pupils are enthusiastic and keen to learn.

"As we always strive to do, we will continue to learn and improve the way we do things in line with the recommendations from Ofsted."