URGENT repairs to roofs at a Highbridge school can now be made thanks to a £1.2million grant.

Staff at The King Alfred School on Burnham Road are celebrating after being one of only a third of British schools to win a grant from the National Condition Improvement Fund.

The school, which has been working with The Priory Learning Trust (TPLT) since its 'requires improvement' Ofsted rating last year, put in a bid for £1.5million of funding to repair the roofs last year after they fell into a state of disrepair.

The £1.2million grant means the school will now be able to install new weather proof roofs across their site.

Neville Coles, executive principal of TPLT, said it is great news for the school.

“This award is largely thanks to the strong team we have at TPLT in winning awards, with hard work and skill," Mr Coles said.

"One of the benefits of being a Multi Academy Trust is to ensure that we are financially strong and can continue to provide our children with first class facilities.”

The school, which was placed in special measures following the rating last year, has been working with TPLT to make improvements.

Ofsted inspectors visited the school from February 28 to March 1 and said leaders are taking 'effective action' to get the school out special measures.

The report, said: "Senior leaders have taken determined action to tackle underperforming teachers since the previous monitoring inspection in November 2017.

"Very clear processes and procedures have been put in place to provide swift support for for teachers whose teaching is deemed to be poor.

"Pupils feel safe in school and understand how to minimise risk, they speak positively about the school's approach to helping them understand how to maintain good mental health."

Denise Hurr, headteacher at The King Alfred School, said there is a 'positive feeling' across the school and staff and students are 'excited' for the school's future.

James Heappey, MP for Highbridge, said:“I am pleased that the Government has been able to find such a large amount of money to complete these necessary works at King Alfred School.

“This money – alongside the huge effort being put in by staff, parents and students – will no doubt enable the school to continue its rapid improvement over the next few years.”