A SCHOOL has failed to boost its Ofsted rating, despite improving in some areas.

Ofsted has rated Gosford Hill School in Kidlington 'requires improvement', the regulator's second-lowest standard.

The school was handed the same rating in 2016, and has since appointed a new headteacher, Nigel Sellars.

Following an inspection last month, Ofsted wrote in the new report: "The headteacher has united staff in their commitment to raising standards.

"Under his leadership, there is evidence that the school is starting to improve.

"He has gained the trust and confidence of the majority of staff, who share his high aspirations for the school.

"Leaders and staff are committed to raising standards and...demonstrate a vigilant approach to keeping pupils safe."

But Ofsted said the quality of teaching, learning and assessment is still 'not consistently effective'.

The report added: "It is too variable.

"This is partly due to fluctuations in staffing since the last inspection.

"Parents and carers and pupils rightly reflect their concerns about the impact this has had on the continuity of teaching.

"Over-reliance on structured support from teachers restricts pupils' independence and the pace of learning."

The 906-pupil school was rated good in two areas: personal development, behaviour and welfare, and 16 to 19 [year-old] study programmes.

This matches the 2016 report.

Inspectors said 16-19 year-olds at the school demonstrate 'impressive conduct' around the school.