A GOOD first report from Ofsted inspectors since Tavistock College was placed in special measures earlier this year has given 'a fantastic boost' to the college, says the chairman of governors.

The progress made by students, staff and governors was praised after education inspectors spent two days at the college last month, looking at many aspects of its work, including observing 33 lessons.

The report says students' progress had improved and predicted grades for current Year 11 pupils indicated that attainment was likely to rise this summer.

Chairman of governors Mandy Govier said: 'Everyone in the college welcomes this report. It is something that we can all be proud of achieving in such a short period of time.

'It's a fantastic boost to the staff, students, governors and parents. It's been a really difficult year for the staff and they have worked really hard.

'We feel we are starting the process of turning this school around and staff can now look forward to their summer break and re-charging their batteries ready for the new academic year in September.'

In January Tavistock College was labelled 'inadequate' and placed in special measures. A report showed weaknesses in leadership, students' achievement, teaching and monitoring of students' performance.

Although work had already been started to make improvements when inspectors made their visit, initiatives had yet to have an impact.

Lead inspector Peter Sanderson said in the latest report there had been good progress, both in ensuring the leadership and management of the college develop the capacity to improve achievement and promoting a more effective contribution to community cohesion.

He also said there had been satisfactory progress in raising achievement by improving provision.

'Students' progress in lessons has improved since the last inspection,' said Mr Sanderson.

'Data and inspection evidence indicate that students' progress over time is improving. Predicted grades for current Year 11 students indicate that attainment is likely to rise this summer.'

He added that the quality of teaching had been effectively reviewed and was steadily improving.

Staff had been supported through a broad range of professional development activities and the curriculum had been successfully broadened to meet the needs of all students.

'The acting principal, Daryll Chapman and acting vice-principal, Bernard Whitehorn, are providing the college with clear and effective strategic leadership.

'They have taken successful action to empower staff and involve them in decision making. These actions have had a significant impact on raising staff morale.'

The report also highlights that the governing body had demonstrated a strong commitment to improvement and was working effectively in partnership with Devon County Council to drive improvement in the school and secure long-term stability in senior leadership and management.

Inspectors said there was a generally calm and purposeful atmosphere around the college, students were positive about the improvements in behaviour since the last inspection and attendance has steadily improved.

Mr Chapman said: 'I am really pleased with the progress the college has made in such a short time.

'What has particularly impressed me is the response there has been from students and staff in their drive and determination to make such rapid progress.'

Mr Chapman returns as principal of Okehampton College next term and Helen Salmon will take on the role as acting principal of Tavistock College.

The college said it would be welcoming Helen Salmon to continue the journey with the senior team that Daryll Chapman and Bernie Whitehorn had started.