Trip down memory lane for minister

Whalley Range High is proud of its former pupil

Education Secretary Estelle Morris has visited her old school for the first time since she was promoted to the Cabinet.

Ms Morris unveiled a plaque dedicated to her success at the entrance to Whalley Range High in Manchester.

Ms Morris told pupils about her experiences at the school in the 1960s

She also took part in a live broadcast on the school's internal television station and told the 1,600 pupils about life at the school in the 1960s.

"I struggled in my O levels, to tell you the truth," she said.

"I did not do very well at school, really. I passed the 11-plus and was expected to pass O-levels and A-levels. But I didn't get my O-levels in one go."

She eventually left school with seven O-levels but failed three A-levels and moved to Coventry to train to become a teacher.

Titled head

The minister was given a tour of the school by head teacher Dame Jean Else, who was given the honour in this year's New Year's Honours List for her part in turning the school around round since she took over seven years ago.

It was her first visit since joining the Cabinet

Whalley Range High used to have some of the highest truancy rates in the country and two-thirds of its pupils had English as their second language.

Dame Jean began a new regime which included introducing strict rules and replacing the school's 1950s' decor.

Youngsters were not allowed to leave the school premises at lunchtime, pop music was played in corridors and school dinners were improved.

The school now has one of the best attendance records in the country.

"Ms Morris would not fail her A-levels now due to the amount of support staff available for students," Dame Jean said.

"I would like to thank her for supporting the school and the friendship that she shows to me personally and the interest she has in the school and staff."