FOLLOWING its rise from the ashes Parrenthorn High School has earned top marks from OFSTED inspectors who have described its head's leadership as providing "a vision for the school that strives to develop all pupils fully." In January last year a £1 million blaze gutted the Prestwich school.

Many lessons had to be conducted in temporary accommodation but despite those difficulties the school has succeeded.

A team of 13 inspectors observed 210 lessons, assemblies and extra-curricular activities and their findings have brought smiles to the faces of all concerned.

Registered Inspector Mr M. Mealing said in his report: "The school is committed to equal access for all pupils and to providing the more appropriate education in a caring and supportive environment.

"It has succeeded in the very difficult circumstances following the fire."

The school receives an intake which in ability is close to the national norm.

Pupils achieve results at GCSE which in some subjects are better than national averages, and in most lessons most pupils achieve the national expectation for their age.

Lower ability pupils also succeed well for their ability.

Every pupil in Year 11 is entered for English, Mathematics and Science with 97 per cent achieving A to G grades in all three subjects.

Last year's results were above the national average in Design and Technology, French, Geography, German and History.

In Art, Mathematics, Science and Statistics results were around the national average.

Singing the school's praises the report's other important findings were that "the school provides good value for money."

The quality of the teaching and learning is sound, with teaching being a particular strength.

Pupils co-operate well. They have a positive attitude towards their studies and teachers rarely need to raise their voices.

Said head teacher Arthur Francis: "The report is evidence of the excellent recovery that the school has made. A lot of hard work has been done and now a sense of normality is beginning to return."

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