FURIOUS school leaders are “appalled” after education watchdogs gave their primary the worst possible rating.

De Vere Primary School, in Castle Hedingham, was rated good before its last inspection.

But now it has been branded ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted.

Teachers, parents and governors are outraged and have launched an appeal.

Chair of governors Matt Savage said: “This is not about fighting against an inspection outcome that is a downgrade for the school.

“This is about fighting against an unfair and inconsistent judgement, the poor conduct displayed by inspectors during the inspection and the lack of transparency from Ofsted in moving the goalposts with no prior warning.”

The report criticised pupils’ behaviour and the school’s teaching of science, phonics and religious education, saying “pupils do not consistently pronounce sounds correctly” and “pupils have a lack of knowledge and understanding about respect and equality”.

But the school criticised the way “inspectors quizzed children using terminology they were not familiar with”.

It also claims children’s responses were taken out of context, which resulted in inspectors jumping to “false and misleading” conclusions.

The school also says it is currently changing its curriculum and was not given the chance to implement the changes.

The Ofsted report admits pupils enjoy school and feel safe, and attendance is good.

It also says children play well together and told inspectors there was no bullying.

Stunned parents claim that contradicts the Ofsted rating.

Abigail Davey said: “I didn’t even feel I was reading about the same school.

“All three of my children have been to de Vere and I cannot stress enough how much has been done for each of them and their individual needs.

“I do not feel it is an accurate representation of the school.”

The rating means the school will now be forced to become an academy.

Headteacher Shelley Jones believes that was part of Ofsted’s agenda.

She said: “The conclusion of the inspection is not a fair representation of the school, which in 2019 saw 76 per cent of Year 6 pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing and maths – a figure above the national average.

“We remain positive and will continue to provide children with an excellent level of education.

“The whole staff – teachers, learning support assistants, office staff, kitchen staff, midday assistants, cleaners and maintenance staff – work for the children who come to this school, are in full support of the school and will remain in post. This will ensure future stability as the school moves forward.”