SAINTS Peter & Paul Catholic College in Widnes is celebrating after achievement, teaching, behaviour and leadership were judged ‘good’ by Ofsted inspectors.

Inspector Judith Tolley praised head teacher Wendy White for raising standards after the previous inspection concluded the school ‘requires improvement’.

She said: “In the very short time the head teacher has been in post, she has acted swiftly and decisively to improve the quality of teaching and to adapt the curriculum to better meet students’ needs and aspirations.

“She has won the confidence of staff, parents and students.

“Student’s attainment has risen rapidly in most subjects. Standards are rapidly rising and increasing numbers of students are making good progress.”

Head teacher Wendy White vowed to enthuse her 1,500 pupils to develop a thirst for learning when she took over in September, 2012.

She said: “I am thrilled. It is due to the absolute determination of our staff. We are utterly devoted to improve the quality of teaching.

“We are delighted this report recognises we have dramatically improved academic results.”

Systematic changes have increased lessons from five to six every day and each pupil has a daily tutorial with a mentor to check on progress.

Staff meet weekly for two hours to discuss innovations and enrichment weeks are held twice a year.

Mrs White added: “Staff believe in our aspirations and put in untold hours.

“We are aiming to be an outstanding college. Some areas in the Ofsted report are very close to outstanding.

“Our next journey is to reach outstanding in every area.”