A SCHOOL has had to take on seven new teachers to cope with an influx of pupils from home and abroad.

Futures Community College, Southend, has also added a new tutor group in year seven for the extra pupils from across Southend and Eastern European countries.

The new teachers will provide subjects such as science, maths, English and food technology to pupils aged from 11 to 18.

Two other members of staff have been employed in support roles to assist pupils from Poland and Czechoslovakia, who make up nine per cent of students at the school.

Headteacher Jean Alder said the support for youngsters from abroad, some of whom miss their country, is essential.

She added: “It’s about helping youngsters settle into school. If you lived for a couple of years in Poland, you would find the routines and procedures different. Having some members of staff who speak your language and who can explain the differences in the education system to parents, is very important.

“The way children cope can vary. Some are very resilient, but some are clearly homesick. So far it’s been a very positive experience having these children and local children, in turn, learn from them.”

Futures is undergoing a multi-million pound refurbishment and building programme.

Mrs Alder added: “Each year the number of students choosing Futures increases, because we offer a motivational and concentrated learning environment across both academic and skill-based subjects that ensures all pupils achieve their optimum.”

A reading manager has also been added to the team to ensure all pupils at the school become competent readers.