A SCHOOL has received a letter of congratulations from the country's lead Ofsted inspector after it was no longer classed as failing.

St Monica's RC High School in Prestwich has been praised for the hard work undertaken after it was placed in special measures in 2018.

As reported by The Bury Times, Ofsted found the school was improving significantly under the leadership of headteacher Chris Foley during a recent inspection.

The school is now in the “requires improvement" category and is no longer in special measures.

At the start of the new term, the headteacher received a letter from Amanda Spielman, Her Majesty's Chief Inspectors.

Bury Times:

She stated: "I am writing to congratulate you and your school team on your recent inspection outcome. I know that the progress your school has made is the result of hard work and commitment on the part of many people. Since the previous inspection, you have reviewed many areas of school life and have made significant improvements. It is clear from the inspection report that leaders and staff have high expectations of what pupils can and should achieve. It is heartening to read how leaders have focused on designing and implementing an improved curriculum that is more closely matched to pupils' needs and interests,.

"I am particularly pleased to note that pupils' behaviour has improved, although you recognise the attendance and achievement of boys need to improve further.

"I hope that you are all celebrating the improvements you have made. I am sure you will agree that the progress made by you and your team will benefit every pupil at the school.

"I wish you every success in your continuing drive for further improvement in the months and years ahead."