Rachel Totton, who has been at the helm of the school since 1992, will step down at the end of the current academic year.

The school, which has just over 900 pupils, recently came out of special measures after teaching and exam results were slammed and Ms Totton believes it is now in a strong position to move forward.

"I am glad that the college is now out of special measures and in a much stronger position to face the future," Ms Totton said in a statement to the Whitby Gazette.

"It has a really excellent set of staff and students and I look forward to hearing of its future successes.

"Governors, parents and the community have all provided support with recent improvements, and I feel sure that they will continue to do so, and take pride in the college's developments.

"I intend to work in a different way within education, and look forward to keeping in touch with old friends and colleagues."

When approached for comment, Ms Totton did not wish to add to her statement.

Whitby Community College was placed in special measures in November 2005 following a damning Ofsted report which stated the quality of teaching was poor, pupils were not given an acceptable standard of education and examination results were significantly below average.

It was the first secondary school in North Yorkshire to be placed in special measures since the system was started in 1993.

But following a Government inspection at the beginning of March this year it was found significant improvements had been made and the school was taken out of special measures and instead given a Notice to Improve.

Inspectors said teaching and learning standards had been stepped up over the past 18 months, but warned the school was in the early stages of the road to recovery.

At the time Ms Totton told the Gazette that everyone at the college was committed to working together to make continued improvements.

Education chiefs today spoke of their respect for the work Ms Totton has done over the years.

Jane Kenyon, chairman of governors at Whitby Community College, said: "The governors recognise the contribution Rachel has made to the college since she was appointed and wish her well for the future."

Cynthia Welbourn, corporate director of children's and young people's services, said: "I would like to wish Rachel all the best for her future career and thank her for her long and dedicated service to the college."

Borough councillor Joe Plant, who has a child at the school, believes Ms Totton has made the correct decision by stepping down.

He said: "This is the best thing for the future of the school and the education of the children."