A SECONDARY school which once failed to meet Government targets has turned itself around, according to Government inspectors.

Nova Hreod was given a notice to improve during its last Ofsted inspection, but now inspectors say it is on the up.

The education watchdog has judged the school's overall effectiveness as satisfactory, up from inadequate last year.

Headteacher Julie Tridgell said: “I am absolutely ecstatic. We have taken the bull by the horns – this will be one of the best schools in Swindon. We have some fantastic students.”

In 2007, the school fell below a Government target of more than 30 per cent of pupils getting five good GCSE grades, including English and maths.

As a result, it was added to a Government list of struggling schools, known as National Challenge.

But, after visiting the school in October, Ofsted inspectors have described the it as rapidly improving. They also praised Mrs Tridgell for the rise in standards since she joined.

The Ofsted report said: “The new headteacher has provided the school with outstanding leadership since her appointment 14 months ago and she has instigated a number of changes that are leading to significant improvement.”

Inspectors believe school standards are now close to the national average, although they vary across subjects.

Pupils are also said to be gaining ground lost in the past.

The report said: “The weaknesses identified at the previous inspection have been addressed and the school is improving rapidly.

“The senior leadership team is committed to ensuring that all students achieve well.”

Ofsted has now removed a Notice To Improve order given to the school 16 months ago.

Mrs Tridgell said: “Nova Hreod has been recognised as a rapidly improving school.

“We have made significant progress in all areas of school life. We are looking forward to continuing our success. The changes are thanks to the commitment of teachers, and all our staff.

“It is also about the commitment of students and support of parents.”

The school’s overall effectiveness was rated as satisfactory, but its capacity for sustained improvement was judged as good.