A group of parents and teachers are working hard to improve an Alveston school in the wake of budget constraints and a documentary exposing bad behaviour.

Friends of Marlwood School (FOMS) formed in January in an attempt to bring positivity back to the school.

Marlwood featured in Tuesday nights’ episode of school, a BBC documentary following the Castle School Education Trust over the course of an academic year.

The programme showed former headteacher James Pope’s reaction to the school being placed in special measures following an OFSTED report published in July 2017.

Effectiveness of leadership and management and the quality of teaching were all criticised in the report.

The documentary highlighted behavioural problems and poor attendance, although improvements have now been made.

Following the broadcast, on Wednesday morning FOMS brought in cakes in a show of support to the staff.

Responding to the documentary, chairman of FOMS Nick Quinlivan said the school had progressed since filming stopped.

“It’s not where we are now. We know that it’s on the up.”

FOMS has successfully fundraised a new 3D printer, thanks to donations from Rolls Royce, Renishaw and AirBus.

They hold regular gardening days to tidy up the school grounds, with the next being held from 10am-1pm on Saturday.

Nick added: “The school doesn’t have the money to do these sorts of things.

“The money isn’t there but the parents are.

“Something can be created from practically nothing as long as we have got the will to do it.

“There are people who want to help they just need the opportunity.”

“This is our community and we have to support it.”

The group also upcycles unwanted items to provide new equipment for teachers, finding out what they require and providing it.

Anyone interested in joining the group should join the Friends of Marlwood School and Marlwood Alumni Facebook pages.

You can also email info@foms.co.uk.