A STRUGGLING secondary school has been lifted out of special measures.
Rhyl High School was judged to be in need of help following an inspection by Welsh education bosses Estyn in November 2008.
The school, which has 1,150 pupils, was receiving extra help and undergoing regular monitoring inspections up until last month when inspectors withdrew special measures status.
Ann Keane,chief inspector of education and training in Wales said: “The school was re-inspected by Estyn inspectors in July 2010.
“This was the fourth such inspection visit since the school was placed in special measures.
“In view of the progress made since the inspection in November 2008, I am of the opinion that special measures are no longer required in relation to the school.”
The school has benefited from extra guidance and leadership in the form of one of the area’s youngest headteachers, Claire Armitstead, aged 39, when appointed headteacher in January.
Mrs Armitstead, 39, who was previously deputy head at Rhosnesni High School, Wrexham, took on the role following the departure of previous headt Mark Edwards in August 2009.
Former councillor and governor Ann Owens said: “Everyone has worked so hard for this.
“All the staff really deserve a pat on the back for embracing all the suggestions Estyn have made.
“The school’s new senior management team have worked their butts off along with the headteacher who has really been inspirational. Praise has to go to the pupils who come to school, work hard and enjoy it.”
The news was also welcomed Vale of Clwyd MP Chris Ruane who said: “This is a fantastic result for the school, for the leadership of the new head, all the staff, parents and governors.
“Their efforts deserve to be commended. I believe this is a turning point for education in Rhyl.
“I hope the local authority will offer the school what it needs to continue this recovery.”