School's education quality 'requires improvement'
Inspectors from the watchdog Ofsted found that pupils' personal development, behaviour and attitude at Netherhall School in Maryport were "good", but that the quality of education, sixth form provision, and leadership needed to be improved.
The report also said that pupils were benefiting from a revised curriculum which "raised expectations for pupils' achievement", but that there were weaknesses in how well some subjects were delivered, including in sixth form.
The school has been approached for comment.
Ofsted's previous full inspection in 2018 had judged the school to be "good" across all criteria.
The school, which has 870 children on its roll, was found to have undergone "many changes" in leadership and staffing since the previous report.
Inspectors said pupils enjoyed attending Netherhall and that sixth form students served as "excellent role models" for younger children.
The report also highlighted the "extensive range" the school offered including sport events, overseas trips and charity fundraisers.
However, inspectors said the school had not ensured pupils' understanding was checked "well enough".
"This means that sometimes staff do not know when pupils have gaps in their knowledge or whether they remember their learning over time," they said.
"This hampers them from building on what they know and can do already."
Inspectors said the school was taking steps to improve "many aspects of its
provision" leading to improved attendance rates.
They also praised children's behaviour and said staff were "proud" of their work.
Governors were said to not always challenge the school "effectively".
"This means that governors do not have a precise understanding of the school's strengths and areas for development," the report added.
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