ESTHER McVey has pledged her long-term support to the ambitious improvement project at Rudheath Senior Academy.

The Tatton MP paid a visit to the school, which is being rebuilt after a devastating arson attack gutted large parts of the building in February 2018.

As well as a physical rebuilding project, the school – formerly the University of Chester Academy Northwich – is under fresh leadership, having joined the North West Academies Trust in November and appointed Ana Roslan as headteacher this year.

Ms McVey – a former Government minister – vowed to back the school’s bid to win further funding for a complete overhaul of its facilities.

She said: “The fire brought devastation but also an opportunity to rebuild, rejuvenate and replenish with a new culture and ethos.

“I’m here as a local MP to lend support, not just for today or next week but actually for five or 10 years’ time.

“The people here have a fantastic community and vision and it’s about incorporating all of these qualities into the fabric of the school. We want children coming here because it is vibrant and filling its potential.”

The school was already on the up and had just received a ‘good’ Ofsted report when the devastating blaze tore through the building, causing millions of pounds of damage.

However, this inspired a newfound resilience within the school – from its leadership to its pupils.

Headteacher Ana Roslan said: “Resilience has become a key word for Rudheath Senior Academy in recent times.

“Since the fire I really feel even more strongly that I am part of this community – a community which truly cares about the school and the kids.

“The children feel a sense of ownership, and I’m very proud of that.”

Ms McVey added: “The pupils are dynamic and have a clear vision of what they want to do.

“I was very impressed with the extra school trips they go on, such as the trip to China and visiting the Houses of Parliament, and the thought and consideration they are putting into their futures.”

Since joining NWAT in November, a raft of changes have come into effect.

NWAT has a track record for improvement, having taken over Oak View Academy in Winsford as the second worst primary in the country in 2014 and steering it to a ‘good’ Ofsted rating.

Other schools within NWAT include Delamere Academy – the highest performing primary in the borough.

It is hoped the rebuild at Rudheath will be completed by the autumn.