A complex-needs school which was shocked to lose its 'outstanding' status has been told it is taking 'effective action' to tackle areas that inspectors said needed improvement.

In December, Ofsted told Chapel Road School, Attleborough, that its leaders' preparations to move into a new building and expand the number of pupils had 'in some respects detracted' from its analysis of some of its provision.

After a follow-up visit on May 5, inspector Heather Yaxley acknowledged that its 'requires improvement' rating came as a 'shock', but added: 'Since then, staff and governors have seized the opportunity to reflect and act on the areas identified for improvement. For example, staff quickly acknowledged the need to expect higher standards from the most able pupils.'

In her letter to headteacher Karin Heap, Ms Yaxley said the school had reorganised the curriculum and timetable for the early-years class, assessed pupils' work more frequently, and held training for teaching assistants.

Mrs Heap said: 'It has been a shock for everybody, and uncomfortable for us, but it's been good for us and means things will be so much better in the new school.'

She was hopeful that the school would be judged 'good' next time.