Ofsted inspectors say it 'no longer requires significant improvement' -– the final stage of the journey to get the school back on its feet.

They spent two days at the school in late June and said it is now 'satisfactory' and good in some aspects, with standards rising and better exam results.

Headteacher John Wilson said: "Ofsted are off our backs and we've got our school back. The reaction has been one of great relief, considerable delight and a genuine desire to make this school the best it can be.

"This is a good start but we are not satisfied with that. We want to develop this into a superb school.

"We have created a sense of identity and community, and the issues from the past are firmly in the past, so we can look forward to the future."

In her report, lead inspector Judith Straw says: "Under strong and effective leadership, the school has tackled its previous weakness and made good progress."

Pupils told the inspectors they felt school life had improved dramatically over the past two years. Youngsters also claimed bullying is rare and is dealt with effectively when it does occur.

In their letter to students, inspectors said: "We think you can be satisfied that you are at a school which is working hard to improve your education."

Mike Furbank, East Riding of Yorkshire Council's head of improvement and learning, said: "It is testament to the staying power of the school that they have had some tough times and come through strongly.

"John Wilson has brought a sense of purpose and a clarity of vision that has made a difference and Bob Duerden, who was chairman of the Interim Executive Board was very influential, working long hours for the school.

"The school now really believes children can achieve and the children do too. They have seen the improvements and the school is setting itself some very challenging targets."

Bridlington School was placed in special measures in May 2005, following concerns about poor teaching leadership and exam results.

Last March, inspectors were convinced the school had done enough to come out of special measures but it was given a notice to improve.