Chepstow School has made good progress since its last inspection, according to Estyn, and has been taken out of special measures.

A team of inspectors, led by Robert Davies visited the school in October to monitor the progress made against recommendations made in the Estyn inspection in January 2012.

They judged that the school had 'made good progress in respect of the key issues for action' and removed the school from the list of schools requiring Estyn monitoring.

Particular mention was made of the improvement in results, in particular mathematics at key stage 4, and of the work undertaken to improve all students' literacy and numeracy skills.

"At key stage 4 there has been a solid improvement in the headline indicator that includes English and mathematics. This measure has increased by seven percentage points and for 2013 is above modelled expectations," the inspectors' report said.

"Improvements in mathematics have been strong and performance for 2013 is well into the upper 50 per cent of schools with similar free school meals."

New school systems were praised for their impact on student outcomes.

"The new house system is having a positive impact in learning outcomes and wellbeing, since it has strengthened the links between curriculum and pastoral support.

"The school has a strong ethos of support that allows all leaders the opportunity to develop their skills.

"'School leaders review pupil performance data every six weeks and departments are effectively challenged on the progress that pupils make. This has a clear impact on outcomes.

"There is a very high level of trust between middle leaders and they support each other well."

Headteacher Claire Price said: "We are exceptionally proud of the progress that we have made during the past 18 months.

"The inspectors reflected our hard work to make sure that all young people leave our school with the best possible outcomes.

"We will continue to ensure that we maintain and improve our progress, not just against the Estyn recommendations but also in all areas of the life of the school."

Chair of Governors Craig Bridgeman said: "This report reflects the fantastic effort made to improve our position in such a short time.

"Strong leadership, direction and a tangible plan with a team ethos has led to the first phase of our journey to excellence at Chepstow School."