The headmaster of a St Albans school that was put into special measures last year said there is a "clear vision" for its future.

Nicholas Breakspear Catholic School, for pupils aged between 11 and 18, was put into special measures in October 2013 after an inspection rated the school "inadequate".

During a two day inspection last month, the school’s inspectorate observed 32 lessons at the school in Colney Heath Lane, and decided the school no longer needed to be in special measures and has been graded as "requires improvement".

The report said the proportion of students who are excluded from school for a fixed period of time has fallen and number of behavioural incidents in lessons has also decreased. It also said the quality of teaching is improving and the sixth form is good.

Declan Linnane, who took up the role of headteacher in September said: "This is great news for our community and well deserved. It is very clear that all of our stakeholders have worked well together and that the school has a clear vision for its future.

"The areas identified by the inspection team for improvement are acknowledged by the school and plans are in place to improve these areas rapidly. These new systems are already making an impact in raising student progress and are improving the quality of teaching and learning. "

The school was put in special measures after the achievement of pupils, quality of teaching and leadership and management was deemed to need significant improvement.

The school, which teaches 625 on school roll compared with 718 last year, has had two monitoring visits since being placed in special measures.

Mr Linnane added: "It continues to be an exciting time for Nicholas Breakspear and there is a true sense of pride amongst our community. "This report highlights the hard work of the students, parents, staff and governors over the year. It clearly describes a transformational and positive journey.

"It is very clear that this community has high aspirations, a new direction and it is clear what this school is striving for."

The school has been told it still needs to improve teaching, leadership and exam results.