A BOARDING school in Bolton "requires improvement", according to the Government's education watchdog.

Al Jamiatul Islamiyah, a independent faith day and boarding school based at Mount St Joseph's Convent in Deane, failed to have the requires improvement tag lifted at a recent inspection — but Ofsted did rate three areas of the school as good.

And inspectors found that the school has "improved over time".

Senior managers at the school have said they are working to make the school outstanding for pupils.

Areas graded good by inspectors were the personal development, behaviour and welfare of pupils, the sixth form provision and the overall experiences and progress of children and young people in the boarding provision.

Leadership and management, outcomes for pupils and quality of teaching, learning and assessment were all said to require improvement

Inspectors found that pupils' achievement in English was not as good as in other subjects.

And the school was urged to resolve a dispute between some trustees, past and present members, so that the school's "focus can remain on the providing the best possible education and care for its pupils".

Inspectors stated: "Senior leaders show dedication and commitment. They have created a school culture which values pupils and their learning. In addition, and consistent with the school’s Islamic principles, there is a strong sense of welcome and respect for others. Leaders’ expectations about pupils’ behaviour and learning are high, although these have not led to the highest possible outcomes in English.

Pupils were found to be happy in the boarding environment and it was likened to a second home

Suhail Manya, a senior leader, at the school, said: "We are extremely pleased with the positive aspects of the report and and working with outstanding schools to assist us on our journey to becoming outstanding.

"Students' results are above national average apart from in English. English for some of the pupils is their second language and we are improving the teaching of English."

He said that the report was helpful for the school in helping them make further improvements.

Mr Manya added: "We want to be a positive influence on students' development."