The news was given in a statement issued through the North Eastern Education and Library Board after the publication of the devastating report which said this failure was due 'primarily to shortcomings in the management of the school'.

Dennis Harvey, who is principal of Monkstown Community School, will stand in as head while the training programme is underway, but the Board stressed Dr Scott is expected to return.

The statement also said the Board of Governors and teaching staff at Crumlin have been promised 'the full support of the North Eastern Education and Library Board' as they try to introduce improvements.

The Education and Training Inspectorate report highlighted:

• the unsatisfactory leadership and management of the school;

• the serious shortcomings in the quality of pastoral care;

• the generally poor standards achieved by the pupils; and

• the lack of challenge in much of the work set which is poorly matched to the individual needs and aspirations of the pupils.

The NEELB said both they and the College's Board of Governors have accepted the findings and have agreed to work together to bring about improvements in all the areas identified by the Inspectors.

A spokesperson for the NEELB said: "An action plan is being drawn up to address the issues raised in the report and this process will be completed by mid-May. The Board's Curriculum Advisory and Support Service team will offer intensive curriculum and management support to the College staff and Governors who are naturally disappointed with the findings.

"They have resolved to bring about real and speedy improvements in the interests of all the pupils. The principal Dr Annabelle Scott will be given the opportunity to undertake a programme of training and support outside the school for a period of time. On completion of this the principal is expected to resume her professional duties."

The inspectors recommended the Department of Education should use it powers to appoint additional voting members, with appropriate experience and expertise, to the governing body.

And they said they will be monitoring the steps to be taken closely and will have the full cooperation of the Governors and staff. A follow-up inspection to measure the improvements is also expected over the next 18 months.

Letters will be sent to all parents outlining in more detail the College's response to the report's findings. A meeting of parents could also take place shortly.