STAFF and pupils are celebrating at a Netherton school after being told they are out of Special Measures.

Following a recent Ofsted inspection, The Link Academy has achieved a good rating across the bord.

The school was formerly known as The Hillcrest School and Community College before changing its name in August 2018.

In 2016 the college was placed in Special Measures due to poor pupil attendance and behaviour, low GSCE results and ineffective maths teaching.

However, the academy on Simms Lane has ‘improved considerably’ according to inspectors.

The Ofsted report notes: “The school’s values of dreaming big, rewarding effort, leading together, respecting each other and our world, and learning that inspires, run through all aspects of school life.

“Pupils behave in a calm and orderly way around school and in lessons.

“Leaders have established strong routines for behaviour. If behaviour falls below what is expected, staff respond quickly to resolve the issue.

“Leaders have created a well-designed curriculum. They have also appointed the right staff and trained them effectively.”

Emma Edwards-Morgan, principal at The Link Academy, said: “When I joined the academy as principal three years ago, I said that it was a fantastic opportunity to change lives among the young people of Netherton and the surrounding area.

“Now I can say that we are truly giving our learners the education and opportunities that they deserve.”

“This inspection report is a great reward for our staff, learners and parents and carers.”

The school joined the Dudley Academies Trust in September 2017.

Jo Higgins, chief executive of Dudley Academies Trust, said: “Learners at The Link Academy can now believe that they are good enough to achieve the top university, apprenticeship and employment opportunities.

“We are teaching them to dream big and will do everything to help them to realise their ambitions.”