THE new executive head at a school under investigation is changing rules on behaviour.

Neil Gallagher, who is also headteacher at Clacton County High School, has been flown in to oversee the running of the Colne School in Brightlingsea.

He sent a letter to parents outlining some changes to be made to the behaviour policy.

It addresses how students should be in uniform and equipped for lessons, must arrive on time and follow instructions set by teachers.

After lessons they must understand homework requirements.The new policy also mentions general behavioural expectations such as being polite and courteous to others.

Teachers can award students points every day for meeting various criteria such as outstanding homework and showing respect.

In a letter Mr Gallagher said: “I will be spending four days at The Colne each week, along with a number of other colleagues from Sigma Trust to help provide stability and clear leadership at this time.

“These include Gregg Heighway, who will be working with the pastoral teams to ensure we provide excellent care for the students. This interim arrangement will be in place until the end of the academic year.

“Understandably you will have questions about the future of the school and what this will look like beyond this academic year. Currently none of this has been decided but I can assure you any decisions made by The Thrive Partnership Academy Trust and the Department for Education will be in the best interests of the school and the community it serves.”

Parents and students had asked for a clearer behaviour policy with effective sanctions.

He added: “We are confident the vast majority of students will be extremely happy with these new arrangements and I know from experience that it will help improve the learning environment.”

A list of consequences will be given depending on the severity of the action. They are ranked from C1, a verbal warning, to isolation from lessons.

C3 means children will be removed to a different room to complete work.

Hour-long detentions after school will be given to children who do not comply.