Freuchie Primary School was declared to be 'unsatisfactory' in a number of areas, including the quality of its accommodation and the leadership of its headteacher.

Government inspectors who visited the school last September also found it 'weak' in terms of meeting pupils' needs and providing them with pastoral care.

Staff morale was low and the overall quality of learning was poor, the report concluded.

However, the local authority's education service said it was making 'good progress' in improving the situation.

At the request of the inspectors, an action plan has been implemented which includes the appointment of a new acting headteacher to replace the previous headteacher, who left his post following the inspection.

The post of permanent headteacher has been advertised and an appointment will be made this term.

Senior manager Bryan Kirkaldy said: "We recognise that a number of weaknesses were identified and have worked with the school in addressing these points.

"The acting headteacher and her staff have worked hard to implement changes and take the school forward, and I'm confident that inspectors will see a marked improvement during their follow-up visit."

Assurances have also been given about the school's accommodation and facilities after concerns were expressed by local councillor Andrew Arbuckle.

Area education officer Ralph Donaldson said that it had been the management of the building and failure to adhere to health and safety rules that had caused problems in the past.

The report wasn't all bad news, however.

Inspectors praised the 'well-organised' nursery, where the children were said to be happy and confident; the participation of pupils in a wide range of after-school activities, and supportive parents who helped in school activities.