WHEN a school is branded “inadequate”, a lot of good and hard-working people feel aggrieved.

The label feels like a slap in the face to dedicated teachers, concerned governors and above all those pupils who work hard and should feel proud.

So there will be plenty of people unhappy about the fact that Poole’s Ashdown Technology College has been placed in special measures.

Nonetheless, Ofsted has flagged up some important concerns about teaching, achievement and behaviour.

A child’s years at school are short – even if they don’t feel that way at the time – and every day when a pupil doesn’t receive the best possible education is a day that can never be regained.

So it’s right that the school has responded to Ofsted’s criticisms by implementing a plan for raising achievement.

We should hope that the harsh judgement from the inspectors turns out to be a blessing in disguise.