A MUCH-improved school has been praised by Government inspectors.

Ofsted officials have awarded Darlington School of Mathematics and Science ‘good’ in key areas including leadership and management, teaching and pupil behaviour.

The endorsement has further fuelled the management’s desire to push for outstanding as the transformation of the school continues apace.

When new management took over the school in 2010 it was in the bottom one per cent nationally and on the verge of closure.

Since then a new name, ethos, and comprehensive overhaul of buildings and curriculum have seen DSMS placed in the top 17 per cent of schools in the country.

Headteacher Calvin Kipling said: “The Ofsted inspection is validation of our inexorable journey towards outstanding.

“The trajectory of the school is clear and our main focus will remain achieving outstanding progress for when Ofsted return in 2017.”

Mr Kipling also had high praise for students and their families for the support they give on a daily basis.

“We did some market research among parents and carers and the positive feed back was phenomenal,” he said. “More than 90 per cent would recommend DSMS to another family which is high praise indeed.”

Oftsed inspectors highlighted:

• The head teacher’s drive for excellence and resolute approach which ensures considerable improvements in pupil progress and achievement;

• Good and outstanding teaching which is managed highly effectively;

• Good pupil behaviour in response to excellent staff role models;

• High quality care and support for pupils;

Mr Kipling added: “What is important to me is that DSMS is a happy and welcoming school which is reflected in students who are a pleasure to teach.

“Governors, staff, families and pupils share a common goal to ensure that this is the very best place to learn offering students of all abilities the perfect start to life.”