A Bradford councillor has voiced “great concern” about a primary school which has been told by education watchdog Ofsted that it must improve.

Councillor Michael Walls has spoken out after an inspection by the education watchdog flagged up failings in teaching at Russell Hall Primary, Queensbury.

Areas highlighted included pupils’ achievement; teaching quality and leadership and management.

The inspectors state the school is not good because progress was not fast enough in some years; pupils do not get the same deal in all classes and the school is not accurate in evaluating strengths and weaknesses.

The report did, though, say pupils’ behaviour and safety was good.

And its strengths include examples of outstanding teaching; safe, secure and caring environment and a creative curriculum. Russell Hall was also said to be highly valued by the community.

Coun Walls (Con, Queensbury) urged Bradford’s education chiefs to do all they can to help Russell Hall solve its problems.

“I am really concerned for children at the school and I know many parents share my concern,” he said.

But while backing Coun Walls’s comments, Councillor Paul Cromie (Ind, Queensbury) described problems at the school as “just a blip”.

“I am sure the situation will right itself,” he said.

Coun Cromie, whose wife Lynda is also an Independent councillor for the ward, added: “If there are problems then they need sorting out as quickly as possible. But this will right itself, I am sure of that. I think it is a temporary blip. The school is devoted to its pupils.”

Councillor Ralph Berry, the Council’s executive member for children’s services, said education chiefs were aware of the situation and was supporting the school.

Councillor Roger L’Amie, the Conservative shadow member for education, said: “The importance of a sound start to a child’s education cannot be overstated. It is crucial that all our schools deliver a first-rate education. All parents have a right to expect this.”

Russell Hall headteacher Christine Nuttall did not want to comment.