A NEW set of rules have been introduced at a primary school in a bid to tackle poor behaviour.

William Read Primary School, on Long Road, Canvey, launched its four step disciplinary programme yesterday as pupils arrived for the new term.

The initiative, which would see persistently naughty children removed from lessons, has been labelled "great" by councillors.

A series of measures against disruptive pupils will begin with their names being written on the class whiteboard, before they are moved to sit alone.

The next step will see them transferred to a separate classroom for time out, before they are removed altogether by a specialist team.

School leaders would then decide how to move forward.

Veteran Tory councillor Ray Howards believes children will be offered more support as a result of the disciplinary programme.

He said: “I’m all for a strict code of conduct myself, I think it's a great idea.

“I’m not for corporal punishment, but I come from an era where if we misbehaved we would have been struck.

“I think these new guidelines will help in many ways.

“For instance, if a child is being bullied as a result of children misbehaving then this will help with that.”

The rules also state that if a child is sent to time out three times in one half term, which usually lasts between six and seven weeks, parents will be called for a meeting with their teacher.

Mr Howard, borough councillor for Canvey West ward- the area William Read comes under- said he hopes parents warmly welcome the new guidelines.

As part of the programme, signs will be placed around the school promoting four golden rules.

Outlining the rules in the latest school newsletter, headteacher Jacqui Gosnold said: “We listen and follow instructions, we are safe and kind, we are always respectful to people and property, and we have a growth mindset.”

During breaks, staff will also be patrolling the school and playground to ensure high behavioural standards are maintained.

In its latest Ofsted report in January 2015, William Read, which has 412 pupils on its roll, was handed a good rating and praised for its results in reading , writing and maths and work to tackle bullying.

Inspectors also found teachers have good relationships with pupils, and offer effective emotional support.

It came nearly two years after William Read was ordered to improve.

In order to become outstanding, the school was told to monitor absences and improve marking.

The Echo asked Mrs Gosnold for comment, but she did not respond.