A SECONDARY school is on track to have its ‘failing’ tag lifted.

Smithills School was visited by Ofsted inspectors six months after it was placed into special measures by the Government’s education watchdog.

Officers found that leaders and managers ‘are taking effective action towards the removal of special measures.’

Inspectors also praised the recently appointed interim principal Michael Sidebottom for having made a ‘significant impact’ on the school in the brief time he has been in post.

The report stated: “Staff who spoke to inspectors felt that he has brought clarity, transparency and direction to the leadership of the school. As one teacher said: ‘He has given us a sense of purpose.’ They described staff morale as being very low at the end of last term but that it is now ‘on the up’.”

Pupils also told inspectors about the difference the new head has made, with Ofsted stating: “ They are aware of an improved culture in the school and appreciate their teachers’ efforts to help them achieve well. During an informal discussion at break, Year 11 pupils told an inspector how much they appreciate the way that they have been prioritised in recent months.” Year 11 pupils were said to be the most ‘affected by the legacy of poor leadership and teaching in recent years’ by inspectors.

Mr Sidebottom said: “I am pleased to report that the outcome of the inspection was very positive. It was judged that the school is taking effective action towards the removal of special measures and that our action plan is fit for purpose.

“As a school, we found the visit exceptionally helpful and the feedback that we received will enable us to make further positive changes. We are very clear about what we need to do to improve the school further and are working hard to put these changes into place. I would like to express particular thanks to our teachers and pupils for working hard to make this positive report possible.

“At Smithills we pride ourselves on the strength of our community.”