ST Whites Primary School in Cinderford is celebrating becoming a ‘good’ school after two years of special measures.

Headteacher Miss Teresa Cross was praised recently by Ofsted inspectors for “leading from the front” with the report concluding that “her strength of character and determined leadership has enabled the school to reinvent itself.”

Following the publication of the report, Miss Cross was quick to thank staff and pupils for their efforts.

She said: “Our staff have worked tirelessly to rise to the significant challenges the school has faced and parents have been incredibly supportive.

“Our pupils deserve the best possible education, and the inspectors commented on their positive attitude to learning and desire to learn.

“We are delighted with the outcome and would like to thank the local authority for its support over the past two years. We are now well placed to move into the new school in February, and are really excited about the future.”

The school has been judged ‘good’ across all areas. Key findings include the “relentless determination” of senior leaders to improve standards and pupils being increasingly challenged to achieve their potential.

The report concluded that ‘over the last three years, pupils’ progress has improved rapidly, so that overall, pupils achieve well.

“Pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds make good progress and achieve well and staff are very vigilant at ensuring pupils’ safety and well-being. The governing body has been instrumental in supporting the successful drive for improvement.”

Chair of governors, Matt Bishop added: “To be out of special measures is something I am especially pleased about, as it is recognition of the hard work everyone has put in at St Whites.

“We are all determined for this school to become outstanding.”

Cllr Paul McLain, Gloucestershire County Council’s cabinet member for young people, said: “I am really proud of the staff, governors and most importantly the pupils at St Whites School.

“I am pleased that the good work and positive attitudes of the pupils has been reflected in this Ofsted report and the school’s future looks bright.”

The school is due to move to a new £6m council-funded premises in February. A tree planting ceremony is scheduled for today (Wednesday) to mark the move.