INSPECTORS have told a Bradford school that opened just two years ago it needs to improve, but the head says many of their comments were still "encouraging" for a new school.

Bradford Studio School on Thornton Road was the first in a new style of Free Schools, which specialise in vocational qualifications, to open in the district. Recognisable for its onsite aeroplane fuselage, the school teaches subjects such as hospitality and international travel alongside the national curriculum.

When it opened in 2012 it was called the International Food and Travel Studio School, but the name was changed after further specialist subjects were offered.

But an Ofsted report released yesterday says results in some of these specialist subjects are disappointing.

Despite being set up for around 300 students aged between 14 and 19, there are currently just 56 pupils registered at the school.

Ofsted inspectors visited last month, and their report said the school "required improvement," but does say the school has improved compared to its first year of operation.

Among the issues raised in the report are that the standards at year 11 are low compared to national averages, that post 16 students do not progress enough in maths, that attendance is low and punctuality is poor.

The school is run by the Bradford College Education Trust and includes partnerships with local businesses.

The report said: "Attendance has risen considerably from exceptionally low during the school's first year of operation to low last year. The number of students who are persistently absent has decreased markedly, but still remains above average.

"Results in GCSE subjects vary considerably, with some notable successes in catering but disappointments in leisure and tourism, both areas of specialism for the school."

The school is praised in several areas, with the report saying it "works hard to ensure that placements are suitable and that students are well prepared and supported.

"Students spoken to say they feel safe and appreciate being part of the small school community."

Headteacher Jean Watt said: "Since opening, Bradford Studio School has made considerable progress in a number of areas.

"This is a very encouraging report for the newly opened school, which celebrates many of the school's strengths. Most significantly the report highlights the achievement and progress of our students at Key Stage 4, from low starting points when they join the school, students make good progress in subjects such as English.

"The report also goes on to highlight that within the sixth form provision Bradford Studio School ensures that work placements are closely matched to their interests and aspirations. This enables students to develop self-confidence and employability skills and useful vocational skills. Consequently, all Year 13 leavers have moved on to appropriate courses in further or higher education or into employment.

"Overall, I see this as a very encouraging Ofsted report, which gives us a clear direction on areas for improvement and allows us to add to the existing strengths of the school, whilst staff will also continue to deliver high quality learning and teaching to small class sizes, ensuring every student in the school receives a highly personalised education and achieves their potential."

A DfE spokesman highlighted that Ofsted had praised the school's governors, and added: “Studio schools are a vital part of our plan for education and help ensure that pupils are equipped for life in modern Britain by working in their local areas with employers.

“Where Ofsted identifies problems in a school, we expect swift and appropriate action to be taken to ensure improvements are made and every pupil is getting the high quality education they deserve.”