OFSTED inspectors have found Carisbrooke College is improving — but not all pupils are getting the same opportunities.

Following an inspection, carried out in December, the college has retained its overall rating of 'requires improvement.'

It has been rated as 'good' in two categories — students' behaviour and attitude, and leadership and management — and 'requires improvement' in the other two — the quality of education and students' personal development.

Inspectors found students' learning had improved but remained 'variable in quality.' Standards had improved in maths, but students struggled with more challenging English texts.

Their vocabulary was not wide enough to produce high-quality written reports, and their reading across different subjects was not varied or demanding enough.

Inspectors said school leaders needed to ensure reading was at the heart of the school's curriculum.

They found opportunities at the school were not available to all students.

Despite offering trips, including a visit to China, leaders did not check all pupils — particularly those who were disadvantaged — participated.

Inspectors praised the careers guidance offered at the school.

Overall, they found the college was improving and students enjoyed a 'calm and harmonious' school life.

Executive headteacher Matthew Parr-Burman, and his senior team, were praised for their sense of purpose and determination that all pupils receive the highest quality of education.

In response, the college said plans were in place to address the shortcomings and it was confident the school would make rapid progress.

Mr Parr-Burman said: "I would like to thank the governors, staff, students and parents for their ongoing hard work and commitment.

"Everyone in our community should be proud of the remarkable progress that has been made so far.

"I am delighted this inspection report reflects the passion and dedication of our staff. However, I am frustrated we have not yet got to the 'good' rating we all desire and, overall, we have remained as 'requires improvement.'

"For me, this is not something I am at all happy with and I am even more determined that we continue to improve.

"We all remain ambitious for the future of Carisbrooke College and will continue to work hard to ensure that we are the very best we can be."