THREE years of hard work has paid-off for Hesketh Fletcher C of E High School in Atherton.

Ofsted inspectors returned to the school in May for the first time since 1998 when the Hamilton Street school was placed in the 'serious weakness' category.

They discovered those weaknesses have disappeared and reported a "rapidly improving school with good management and teaching.

"Standards are average" the report states," but pupils' achievements are good. Since spending per pupil is below average, the school is giving value for money."

Ofsted also considered that the school 'adds value' to its children's education because pupils who entered the school with below average results in national tests were leaving at the national average, indicating that good progress.

According to Ofsted, management is very good and the governing body fulfils its duties well. Pupils make good progress in English across years seven to nine and English is taught "very well" across years seven to 11.

Standards for pupils aged 16 are well above average in art, drama, English literature, history and physical education.

Extra-curricular activities are extensive and of good quality and spiritual, moral and cultural provision is good, as is care for pupils. Only a minority of pupils behave unsatisfactorily and attendance is just below average.

Finally, although current accommodation for modern languages, science and music is unsatisfactory, building work is due to start in summer 2001.

Headteacher Dr Ted Walker said: "We are absolutely delighted with this report. It represents two and a half years of very hard work by staff and pupils. We have been well supported by our governors, Wigan LEA and the Manchester Diocese, which has provided financial support.

"We are very grateful to parents who have kept faith with the school and our aim now is to move from 'good' to 'excellent' in everything we do."

Governors' chairman Gary Shepherd added: "In addition to addressing all the key issues, GCSE results have improved dramatically and a new building programme is about to take place.

"The school has a lot to be proud of and I can't praise our staff and pupils too highly. Our partnership with parents is strong and they are rightly proud of their school."