Until the early 1990s, under the headship of Mr Turbayne, the school was subject to much criticism, with a relatively bad reputation.

In October 2004, Mark Braine took leave of absence,[4] left the school's employment in April 2005,[2] and on 27 September 2006, a disciplinary order was made against him by the General Teaching Council, taking effect on 11 October 2006.

[2] Mark Braine was also found guilty of unacceptable professional conduct, including bullying and manipulating colleagues, making unwanted advances to seven women staff members, and giving his wife and daughter jobs at the school.

After two severe cases of arson attack, Avon Valley was newly built and refurbished in 2007.

This meant that new resources were supplied, including drama rooms, an assembly hall and a gym.