A pupil referral unit in St Albans is taking "effective action" to tackle areas requiring improvement, according to a monitoring inspection from Ofsted.

The Links Alternative Provision Academy in Hixberry Lane is being monitored after the education watchdog told them it "required improvement" in October.

The unit teaches 32 pupils between the ages of 11 and 16, who have special educational needs in relation to social, emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Head teacher David Allen was told last year students made less progress in maths and science because weaknesses in the quality of teaching and the curriculum.

When the school was visited last month, inspector John Daniell said senior leaders and governors are taking effective action to tackle the areas requiring improvement identified in October.

The inspection found the improvement plan is detailed and many of the targets are measurable.

The report said: "As a result of a formal timetable for the whole academic year, pupils now have much more consistency in the quality of teaching they receive.

"They appreciate the stability of knowing who their teacher will be throughout the year.

"This includes opportunities for students in Years 10 and 11 to do work experience in order to be better prepared for the world of work."

Students’ attendance has improved since the previous inspection, but although it compares favourably with many students’ attendance at their previous school, it remains well below the national average.

The number of students who are excluded from the academy has been reduced, and the academy was commended for good working relationships with other support agencies, including the local police.

Since the last inspection, two learning assistants have left the academy and they no longer have a budget deficit.

The academy has been receiving support from other schools in the Alban Schools Teaching Alliance.

The academy was told they should take more action to make sure the improvement plan identifies regular times when progress can be measured and to continue to strengthen the subject knowledge of teachers and appoint new staff with the necessary skills and expertise.

Ofsted may carry out further visits and, where necessary, provide further support and challenge to the academy until its next section 5 inspection.