A SECONDARY school is going from strength to strength after appointing a new head teacher to lead it on its way.

Nigel Mountford, who had been serving as the acting head teacher of the Harwich School, in Hall Lane, Dovercourt, has now been officially appointed to the post.

The school's governors met last Friday to officially make their decision.

Steve Fender, chairman of governors, said: "We have appointed Nigel Mountford as permanent head teacher. The governing body are delighted to announce that.

"This represents a new starting point for the school and we can move forward from this point."

The good news comes a week after the school was saved from going into special measures.

The Harwich School was told it had shown significant improvement in an Ofsted inspection held.

It also meant the school could maintain its status as a specialist language college.

The school previously had a year's notice to improve and was warned drastic measures would have to be taken if there was no increase in performance.

Last year's report highlighted problems with behaviour and standards.

Jacky Froggatt left her role as head teacher after a revolt and Mr Mountford stepped in as acting head.

Under his leadership the school was transformed into a positive learning atmosphere with a new code of conduct and praise scheme for pupils who perform well.