From modernisation of all secondary schools to a series of excellent individual HMIE reports, facilities and teaching across the city are moving in the right direction.

Parents will be encouraged to note the reduction in exclusions and improvements in attendance and the focus on nurture classes should reap rewards in the years to come.

However, challenges remain and many schools have a long way to go to improve attainment and get exam results up to the national average.

Education is the future of the city and every effort must be made to ensure our children are taught in the right environment and with the enthusiasm and expertise.

Local and national governments must deliver on their promises whether it is investment in new schools or on teacher numbers in order for progress to be made.

While the inspection reports are positive everyone involved in education knows progress must be built upon and momentum maintained in order for potential to be realised.

All the teachers, staff and pupils in the schools deserve credit for their efforts.