A SECONDARY school that has suffered criticism in the past has been praised in an Ofsted report.

Teachers and governors at Sunnydale School, in Shildon, have been told by inspectors that it is a "good school".

The comprehensive school was earmarked for closure as part of a £300m shake-up in education by Durham County Council last year.

It has now been praised for efforts to address the weaknesses that were found during the last inspection, two years ago.

The report says: "The quality of education is good. Teaching and learning are good. The curriculum is good. Care, welfare and safety of pupils are very good. Support, advice and guidance for pupils are good.''

The leadership of headteacher Sue Byrne, who was appointed to the school in January, was also praised along with management by senior staff and governors.

Mrs Byrne said: "The report could not be clearer. This is a good school and one that is getting better all the time."

Chairman of governors Lesley Wilson said: "I always had faith we would come through this difficult period. It has involved a lot of hard work but everyone has pulled together and persevered and we've had marvellous support."