EDUCATION chiefs were maintaining a wall of silence this week, over rumours that two Darfield schools have been placed in special measures by Ofsted.
The Times understands the decision was made to place Darfield Foulstone and Darfield Valley Primary schools in the most serious category
following inspections two weeks ago.
A crisis meeting was due to be held by governors Darfield Valley Prima
ry School as we went to press on Wednesday.
Sources told the Times that headteacher of 20 years Chris Wilkinson is on sick leave.
It is understood problems arose after the school had to use a lot of supply teachers, with staff being off sick.
A spokesman for Barnsley Council would only say: "We are aware Ofsted inspections have recently taken place at both Darfield Valley Primary School and the Foulstone School, in addition to Darton High School.
"However, as with Darton High, until these reports have been finalised by Ofsted, and made public by them, we are unable to comment further".
Special measures are imposed when Ofsted inspectors considers a school has failed to supply an acceptable level of education and appear to lack the leadership necessary to secure improvements.
The senior managers and teaching staff can be dismissed and the school governors replaced by an appointed executive committee. If poor performance continues, such schools may be closed.
