A FLINTSHIRE high school has reached a positive milestone, following a visit from inspectors.

Estyn, the training and education inspectorate, visited Connah's Quay High School in January 2023, and drew up a raft of measures for its leadership to implement, while it was to be monitored for the next 12 months.

Last year's report flagged up concerns that issues such as bullying were not dealt with well at the school, and senior leadership roles aside from the headteacher have become unclear.

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The school welcomed a new headteacher, James Forber, just two weeks before the inspection team arrived and he has brought a wealth of new ideas and initiatives, highlighted in the Estyn report.

He said at that time: "I welcome the findings in our Estyn report, as this has given me a clear direction in which to take the school forward."

A return visit by inspectors to the Golftyn Lane school in September this year, has resulted in a finding of "significant improvement".

Read more: Highlights from across the region in the School Report

The report states: "Connah's Quay High School is judged to have made sufficient progress in relation to the recommendations following the most recent core inspection.

"As a result, His Majesty's Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales is removing the school from the list of schools requiring significant improvement."

In a message to parents and carers, Mr Forber said: "I am delighted to share some fantastic news regarding the progress of our school.

Read more: Headteacher thanks "great team effort" for positive Estyn report

"This is a significant milestone in our journey of transformation, and we have received a highly positive report from Estyn.

"The report highlights the considerable progress we have made since the last core inspection, particularly in leadership, teaching strategies, and learner well-being. Estyn inspectors were especially impressed with the introduction of "The CQHS Way," which has brought much-needed consistency and clarity to our teaching practices.

"Our senior leadership team was also praised for its role in driving this improvement.

"In addition, our governing body was acknowledged for its growing role in ensuring accountability and supporting school improvement.

Read more: Headteacher's thanks for support after Wrexham school's inspection

"We are particularly proud of the recognition for our efforts in improving learner wellbeing. Since the core inspection, we have implemented a variety of well considered measures that have had a positive impact on learners attitudes to learning, engagement, and attendance."

He finished by adding: "This achievement is a reflection of the dedication and hard work of our staff, learners, and governors.

"However, I would like to take this opportunity to especially thank you, our parents and carers, for your unwavering support throughout this journey.

"Your encouragement and partnership have played a crucial role in our success, and we are truly grateful."

• The full Estyn report can be found here: tinyurl.com/4n6dmd94