A SCHOOL which introduced a controversial new curriculum model has been criticised by inspectors.

Education Scotland rated leadership at Hermitage Academy, in Helensburgh, as “weak”.

Inspectors have already blamed the school’s unusual policy, which has now been changed, for low attainment among some pupils.

In 2015 inspectors were called in over the way new exams were being introduced, which meant some pupils reached fifth form with no qualifications in crucial subjects, such as mathematics.

The new Education Scotland report called for improved leadership at all levels of the school.

It said there was a need for collaboration across the school community to ensure groups such as parents had a better understanding of improvement priorities.

And it concluded: “There is a need to ensure learning across the curriculum takes better account of young people’s prior learning.

“Staff, supported by the school leadership team, should take steps to ensure appropriate levels of support and challenge for all young people.”

The report called for the progress of pupils in fifth and sixth form to be monitored to ensure they maximised their qualifications.

Geoff Urie, the school’s headteacher, has already announced his decision to step down aft the end of the current academic year.