A troubled school's fight to improve standards was given a boost this week by the hiring of seven new teachers.

The Thorpe Bay School, in Southchurch Boulevard, is on special measures and a leaked Ofsted report revealed there was low morale among staff and a general disregard for authority among a significant minority of pupils.

However, headteacher Jean Alder believes the new appointments will help improve the school's performance and reputation.

She said: "I have seven new senior members of staff who will have a significant impact on the school.

"We have been lacking enough leadership at senior level, and these appointments will tackle this."

The school's pupils will be introduced to their new teachers on Wednesday when the term begins.

They will have two new assistant headteachers and new faculty leaders for subjects including English and communications, science, sport and humanities.

Published Tuesday January 6, 2004

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