A PRIMARY school is celebrating after receiving a letter of recognition from the government for their latest progress scores.

Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Whitecross was sent a letter by the secretary of state for education, Damian Hinds and minister of state school standards, Nick Gibb to congratulate pupils on their very high level of progress in reading, writing and maths in their key stage two assessments.

The school now ranks in the top three per cent of all schools throughout the country, an improvement on last year when it placed in the top ten per cent.

The letter recognised the outstanding individual progress that children are making in each subject from when they join the school to when they leave.

Sacred Heart pupils averaged 3.1, 3.5 and 4.0 in their progress scores in English reading, writing and maths respectively.

Head teacher Colleen Everett, said: “To say that we are delighted would be an understatement.

“The letter was unexpected but a very welcome surprise.

“To have had the hard work of our children and staff recognised in such a positive way is just fantastic and a true testament to all that happens on a daily basis.

“However, to be congratulated for accelerated progress in not just one, but all three subject areas is just wonderful.

“Our children never fail to make us extremely proud and I feel very lucky to lead such a dedicated staff who go beyond the call of duty in order to ensure that every child achieves, if not exceeds, their true potential.”