Melksham schools make the grade

NEARLY every primary school in Melksham and the surrounding villages have seen improved exam results since last year, published in the latest national primary school league tables.

The results show Broughton Gifford Primary School as the top performer with a 100% pass rate for the third year running. This makes the school one of only  eight schools in Wiltshire to score 100%.

The tables show the results of last year’s key stage two tests in English and maths, which were taken by 11-year-olds.

Shaw Church of England Primary School had the most significant local increase with 82 per cent of pupils achieving level 4 or above in English and maths compared to last year’s 65 per cent.

Holt Primary School  and Churchfields The Village School in Atworth were the next highest achieving school after Broughton Gifford with both recording 95 per cent; while other results were: Forest & Sandridge School, 81 per cent; Seend Church of England School, 82 per cent; Aloeric Primary School, 79 per cent; Bowerhill Primary School, 72 per cent; The Manor School, 59% and River Mead 40%.

All schools listed recorded a higher percentage than the previous year and for River Mead it was its first recorded score.

The national average of pupils to achieve level 4 or above in English and maths is set at 79 per cent and the average in Wiltshire is 78%. But 100 per cent of Broughton Gifford Primary School pupils hit the national benchmark. The school also achieved 100% last year

Headteacher of St Mary’s, Broughton Gifford School, Angela McAuley said, “We are extremely pleased with the results. It is all down to excellent teaching in school, a wonderful learning attitude from the children and very supportive parents.

“Like all schools, we monitor children’s progress carefully and take a great interest in the holistic development of each pupil. The children are keen to learn and their lessons are focused, purposeful and fun.”

For more information about the recent results and the school at Broughton Gifford visit www.broughtongifford.wilts.sch.uk