SAFETY failings at Haydon Bridge High School’s boarding wing have been addressed, Ofsted inspectors have ruled.

Inspectors delivered a damning report on Ridley Hall in November last year, which was critical of fire safety standards, and said shower facilities did not provide sufficient privacy.

Now in a newly published report, following a monitoring inspection last month, Ofsted concluded that Ridley Hall met national minimum standards.

The latest report said: “Arrangements for fire safety have been completely overhauled. Fire drills are taking place at the required intervals, and both children and staff have undertaken additional training and awareness raising in this area. Fire escapes are fit for purpose.

“The school has acted promptly to improve the quality and privacy of bathrooms. All showers now have lockable doors.”

The report praised the school, its governing body, and the local authority for addressing the shortfalls identified in the previous inspection.

Ofsted said staffing levels at Ridley Hall have been increased, while an interim manager with substantial experience of children’s residential care, has been appointed.

Ridley Hall has been Haydon Bridge High’s boarding wing since 1976, and currently accommodates 24 pupils from far reaching communities.

But future boarding provision is uncertain after both Bright Tribe and Northumberland County Council declared no interest in the continued use of Ridley Hall.