A headteacher has quit a struggling school after its improvement plan was condemned as “not fit for purpose” by inspectors.

John Bunyan Junior School, in Lancaster Way, Braintree, was rated inadequate by Ofsted in October.

An inspector carried out a follow-up visit this month, but ruled the school is not doing enough to resolve its problems.

Headteacher Amanda Woolmer has decided to leave the school, with her responsibilities taken on by Deborah Bailey, who leads the neighbouring infant school.

In a letter to Mrs Woolmer earlier this month, Ofsted inspector Michelle Winter said: “The school’s own action plan is too short term to provide the clear direction the school needs to address all of the areas of improvement.

“It is not clear from the plan how specific weaknesses in teaching will be addressed."