A STRUGGLING school has been given a boost by Government inspectors who say it is improving.

Cecil Jones College in Eastern Avenue, Southend, was put into special measures in October 2009 after inspectors said it was “failing to give its pupils an acceptable standard of education.”

But after another visit from inspectors to monitor the school’s progress last month, inspectors said it had improved since Ofsted’s first monitoring visit in April this year.

They said the school had improved attendance and punctuality and it was also commended for making lessons more challenging and interesting.

Pupil’s behaviour was also better and headteacher, Pauline Harris, said: “We are absolutely delighted for our students, staff, and parents at Cecil Jones College. This result resoundingly acknowledges all our hard work and unflinching dedication. It represents a very important step in our improvement journey. However, we also know we must now continue to move forward as quickly as possible.”

Roger Hadley, councillor responsible for education, said: “The pupils, parents, staff and Governing Body deserve to be warmly congratulated for making such noticeable progress in such a short time.

“This rapid and substantial improvement was achieved through the College’s actions to address the quality of teaching and learning, behaviour, and attendance and punctuality. Well done all.”