A STRUGGLING school is making its way out of special measures after a raft of changes, including new teachers and governors.

Futures Community College in Southchurch Boulevard, Southend, was slammed by Ofsted inspectors in March when a damning report labelled the school inadequate in every area.

There were fears new headteacher Stuart Reynolds and his team would struggle to turn the school around, but Ofsted inspectors say it is now moving out of special measures.

Eleven new teachers have joined the school since the summer and an interim executive board replaced the governing body earlier in the year.

In the latest Ofsted report, inspector Asyia Kazmi said: “Having considered all the evidence, I amof the opinion that at this time the school is making reasonable progress towards the removal of special measures.”

The Ofsted report does highlight weak exam results in August, when only 16 per cent of students achieved five GCSE passes at grades A* to C, including English and maths, but said that was largely due to previous poor teaching.

The report states: “Senior leaders have done much to address these inadequacies and achievement.”

It adds: “Students are now making more progress than before”.

The new teachers, brought into the school in June, include a new assistant headteacher and new heads of department in maths, science and PE.

Mr Reynolds said: “I think the comments have been very encouraging. I think it’s recognising the school as beginning to make progress and it’s been a very positive time.

“Students have reacted well to the new staff and they have spent a lot of time with them.

“Ofsted noted the improvements in behaviour and an improving standard of education.

We are still working towards good and outstanding and there are many aspects that have improved significantly.”

After-school study groups have been set up giving pupils extra tuition in maths and science and efforts are being made for the school to support local charities to boost its standing in the community.

Mr Reynolds added: “All year, groups are also supporting a charity of their choice and it is about trying to improve the ethos in the school and getting students involved in the community.

“I’m very pleased because the students are growing in confidence and it’s a school they’re beginning to feel proud of again, which is very important.

“It’s been a good term and we are still working hard. Every minute counts and we are using as much of the time as we have to achieve more.

“We have a gap to bridge. I hope the changes we are making now will have a positive impact come results days.”

GOVERNORS were replaced earlier this year by an interim executive board and Southend Council says it continues to support the school as it moves out of special measures.

Anne Jones, Southend councillor for children and learning, said: “It is pleasing that Ofsted have recognised the improvements being made at Futures, where teaching, behaviour and attendance are all improving and the interim executive board is holding senior leaders accountable for progress.

“The school has drastically reduced the number of temporary teachers and there are examples of excellent teaching which is having a positive impact.

“I am also pleased initiatives such as mentoring by senior leaders and additional catch-up lessons after school as well as in holidays in core subjects are all contributing to improved achievement.

“However, we realise that there is work still to be done and the council remains committed to supporting the board and senior leaders at the school to continue the improvements journey at Futures.”