A SCHOOL that was branded one of the worst-performing in the country has had a remarkable change in its fortunes.

Eastbourne Comprehensive School, in Darlington, was put into the "special measures" category when it was ranked 182nd out of the worst 200.

Now, two years on, it has been taken out of the category after the Government decided to withdraw the special measures

Headteacher Karen Pemberton said: "It's all a bit difficult to take in. It's been very, very hard work and it's a credit to the staff, pupils and parents.

"I don't want to talk about the past, but right from the beginning you've got to have faith it can be done.

"They've always believed it can be done, they've really been on our side.

"This is only the beginning. We will now work to make the school even more successful."

Since going into special measures, the school has been visited every term by an inspector.

It normally takes at least six visits before a school is withdrawn from special measures, and often more than that, but Eastbourne required only five.

The inspector praised the strength of leadership at the school, the improved teaching and exam results, and the improved attitude and attendance of the pupils.

The report said: "The school was described in 2002 as a dysfunctional community. In 2004, pupils are proud of their school and proud to say that they come to Eastbourne.

"Year seven pupils in particular impressed inspectors with their positive attitude."

Following the introduction of special measures, the Eastbourne school entered into the country's first education federation with neighbouring Hurworth Comprehensive, a high-performing school.

The two schools shared knowledge and resources to help improve Eastbourne.

In July, Eammon Farrar, the federation head, said it would be an exceptional achievement for the school to be out of special measures by November.

He said: "They have really surpassed themselves. There were only 57 schools in special measures, and the bottom seven of these were discussed weekly with the minister for standards. Six of these have now closed and the seventh was Eastbourne.

"The federation has worked very, very well, and I think Hurworth has benefited from it as well.

"I think Karen Pemberton has to get the credit for this. Without her, the school would not have got out of special measures as quickly as it did. The reaction of the children has been great, it really means a lot to them. This community needs an outstanding school."

Councillor Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for children's services, said: "Full credit must go to the pupils, teachers, parents, governors and the education department staff who have provided support to help turn the school around."