School drama Teachers is being axed after four series, Channel 4 confirmed today.

The critically-acclaimed show regularly pulled audiences of 2 million during its first three series but viewer interest waned for its most recent outing.

"Teachers has been Channel 4's most successful drama and the inspiration for a number of irreverent dramas including Shameless, NY-lon and No Angels," said a C4 spokeswoman. "But at the end of its fourth series we decided there wouldn't be a fifth."

The broadcaster will continue to work with the show's creative team on a number of new ideas.