A SCHOOL with historic failings that led to it being branded ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted has now won praise from inspectors for its recent improvements.

St Aidan’s Academy, in Eastbourne, Darlington, is no longer a school with ‘serious weaknesses’ or requires ‘significant improvement’, according to Ofsted’s chief inspector.

Following a visit last month (February) his team rated as ‘good’ the principal Nicole Gibbon and her new senior leadership team as the school transforms its fortunes.

The report stated: “In a very short time, the new principal has made a massive difference to the quality of education that the academy offers.

“She is passionate about being able to provide pupils with the best possible quality of education and ensure that they all reach their full potential.

“In a very short space of time she has ensured that behaviour, teaching and pupils’ progress have all improved.”

Inspectors recognised that Mrs Gibbon had effectively challenged weak teaching and appointed a senior team of good calibre.

“Improvements are tangible, fast and appreciated by the pupils,” the report stated, adding: “The infectious enthusiasm of the principal rubs off on to members of staff at all levels of seniority…staff morale is good.”

Inspectors also praised the involvement of governors at the school and Mrs Gibbon said she was proud of the improvements made so far.

“Staff and students have worked ceaselessly to reach this point – but this is just the start,” she said.

“Staff, governors, pupils and parents now have one goal and that is the relentless pursuit of reaching outstanding.

“That is the culture that now pervades St Aidan’s Academy and it is why everyone involved is proud to be associated with a school that lies at the very heart of the community.”

In 2013 the academy was told by Ofsted that it needed to improve and in October the following year it was rocked by a letter to governors from staff saying that they had a ‘profound lack of confidence’ in the leadership of the school.

New senior staff were appointed and Darlington’s MP Jenny Chapman said she would do all she could to support the academy.

St Aidan’s was formed in 2007 to replace the failing Eastbourne Comprehensive School and is housed in a £16m campus on Hundens Lane.