ONE of Pendle's Building Schools for the Future (BSF) schools is "satisfactory and improving", according to Government watchdog Ofsted.

Following their first visit to Marsden Heights Community College in Brierfield, Ofsted inspectors found it is now making steady progress.

The college was created in September 2006 under Lancashire County Council's controversial £250million BSF scheme.

It amalgamated Edge End and Mansfield High Schools, and Ofsted describes the merger as initially "fraught with difficulties", with poor behaviour and "staffing turbulence".

After a two day visit last month (March), inspectors credited the strong leadership of headteacher Mike Tull for the improvements made since.

The school was rated "satisfactory" in all areas. "Significant improvements" have been made in pupil's performance in English, maths and science, thanks to improved teaching and pupil's personal development, which has also led to better attendance and punctuality.

A pupil is quoted as saying: "This is a different place now than it was at the start, behaviour has improved and teachers do more for you."

Inspectors found that students have embraced the new school community, adding: "Students from different backgrounds and communities get on well together".

Assessing leadership, inspectors said: "The headteacher's strong articulated vision for the school is now shared throughout, resulting in a common sense of purpose."

Inspectors said the school needs to raise standards and improve boys' achievement.

Mr Tull said: "I am extremely proud of the achievements of all within our learning community including students, staff and parents.

"Particularly, I am pleased that this inspection has recognised our hard work, dedication and achievement in such glowing terms."

Chairman of governors, Rev Ed Saville added: "I am really pleased to see the strong clear leadership of the college recognised by the inspectors.

"It is good to know that the education of our young people is in good hands."

Marsden Heights is the fifth BSF school to be inspected since they opened, and the second to receive a positive report.

Sir John Thursby Community College in Burnley was found to be improving with outstanding teaching last month, only a day after it emerged that Shuttleworth College was to join Hameldon Community College in special measures.

Unity College was given a "notice to improve" in November.