A SCHOOL criticised over problems with bullying, racism and low attendance is turning itself around.

Burwood School in Orpington was placed in special measures following an Ofsted report published in October last year.

The school in Avalon Road, which has 42 pupils aged between eight and 16 with behavioural and emotional difficulties, was found to be performing inadequately in all areas.

Ofsted assesses performance as either outstanding, good, satisfactory or inadequate.

However, it was visited by monitoring inspectors in February and July and is now said to be making satisfactory progress.

Headteacher Lynn Key, who took charge of the school in January, says there is still room for improvement.

She said: “We are looking to come out as a good school, that’s our aim. Historically this school has been like a yo-yo.

“We don't want to come out one step up as a satisfactory school, but two steps up.”

The original report stated “incidents of bullying and racism are too common” and “nearly a quarter of the learners on roll never attend”.

Pupils now have lessons in social skills and emotional development, where they focus on relationships and their use of language and body language.

Mrs Key added: “Any incidents of racism are due to our pupils’ lack of verbal skills and an inability to use language effectively.

“If they are in situations of difficulty or confrontation they will use the first bit of language which comes to them.

“Attendance has improved and is something we have spent a lot of time on. We peaked at 80 per cent during last year. We do a lot of rewarding for attendance.”

A forum has been set up to get parents involved in the running of the school. It meets every half term.