PARENTS have blasted a failing free school's leader, claiming she prioritises money over their children's education and for refusing to take responsibility for its scathing inspection.

Langley Hall Primary Academy was plunged into special measures last week after Ofsted rated the school inadequate, and parents have expressed their concerns over the direction the school is heading in.

One parent, who withdrew his children from the school at Christmas, claimed Sally Eaton, the school's education director, was more focused on generating income than providing a high-quality environment for his children to learn in.

The parent, who did not want to be named, said: "It was not the same school we signed up to.

"The uniform was expensive - the kids had to have the shirt, tie, waistcoat and blazer, as well as all of the embroidered PE kit. We spent a lot of money on that and you've got to appreciate people cannot necessarily afford it. We spent around £200 to £300 on each child.

"It seemed to me that she [Mrs Eaton] was just all about money."

Another concerned parent echoed those views of the school which is split over two sites in Station Road and St Mary's Road, Langley, saying that it was "more like a business institution which collects money".

Ofsted's report was released last Wednesday after the school, which opened in 2011, failed in a High Court bid to ban its publication, claiming inspectors were "mistaken" in their assessment of the school.

Inspectors slammed the school's leadership, stating evaluations of performance are "inaccurate and too generous", as well as expressing serious concerns over safeguarding processes.

It added that there was an "unusually high number of complaints to Ofsted".

Ofsted has been ordered by the High Court to hand over, within three weeks, its notes and information relating to the report, and a judge will determine whether or not the school should be reinspected.

A petition has also been started, gathering around 100 signatures, calling for the governing body to understand that parents agree with the report and urging them to take action to improve.

Sir Christopher Ball, chair of governors, refuted the allegations made by parents.

He said: "An awful lot of parents would not say that. I have been having meetings with parents since the report and by and large they have been supportive.

"I totally deny that the headteacher is more concerned with making money - that is not the Sally I know and have worked with for five years. She is devoted to education and committed to the needs of the children.

"It would be a mistake to wait for the verdict. We will be acting on the report as is appropriate. This is not a school in denial."

Mrs Eaton did not respond to The Observer's request for comment.