The new leaders of an Eden school have promised changes after a critical Ofsted report.
Kirkby Thore School was given an overall rating of inadequate after a two-day inspection in March from its previous grading of good.
It means the school has been placed in special measures, although officials in charge have pledged a turnaround.
Incoming headteacher Nicky Edwards and new chair of governors Shaun Cowin have said it is essential all pupils receive the highest quality of education.
Mrs Edwards said: “The governors, staff and I are determined to work together with pupils, families, and the Westmorland and Furness Council school improvement team, to turn things around.
“We want the whole school community to feel proud of the unique and engaging learning opportunities that children will be offered here, building on the school’s long and successful history.
“We know we are on a journey, and that given the issues identified, it will take time to make all of the changes needed. But, we are acting with urgency and have already made big strides in addressing many of the problems the report identified. Pupils’ experiences at school are already much improved.
“We want to reassure pupils and parents that we are committed to this task and will continue to work closely with them as we move forwards together.”
The governors appointed Mrs Edwards as she had recent experience of leading and supporting a small rural school in a similar situation.
The governing board has also been strengthened, with the new chair and the additional appointment of governors, who are bringing new skills and expertise, the school said.
“Already, since the inspection, significant, positive improvements can be seen in the areas of early years, the teaching of phonics, opportunities for staff training, using pupil assessments effectively and creating opportunities for pupils to engage in a wider range of activities beyond academic ones,” parents have been told.
Mr Cowin said in a letter: “Parents can feel reassured that pupils in Years 2 and 6 have been well prepared for the SATs, as have the year one pupils for their phonics assessment.
“Gaps in learning, referred to in the report, have been identified, supported and addressed on an individual level.”
