Plymouth schools receive government recognition

Minister of State for Schools, David Laws MP, has written to eight Plymouth schools to congratulate them on the improvement in the key stage two results of their disadvantaged pupils.

The schools who have received letters are:

• Beechwood Primary School
• College Road Primary School
• Ernesettle Community School
• Prince Rock Primary School
• Pilgrim Primary School
• Plympton St Maurice Primary School
• Pomphlett Primary School
• Thornbury Primary School

Their results show that they have improved in terms of the progress and attainment achieved by disadvantaged pupils since 2011, and that they are highly effective in educating disadvantaged pupils. Staff have provided disadvantaged pupils with a good start in life and prepared them well for secondary school.

These schools narrowly missed qualifying for the Pupil Premium Awards this year, however the Minister expressed his hope that they can build on their success through the summer 2015 results for disadvantaged pupils. If so, they may win a prize of £1000 next year in the 2016 Awards and may also be invited to apply to win up to £100,000.

Councillor Sue McDonald Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Public Health said: “All these schools have made a fantastic contribution in transforming the way we educate children from low-income families.

"We're very proud that all these Plymouth schools have been recognised for doing such excellent work and putting the city on the map for achievement.

"Sharing good practice like this helps every school continue to develop and build on their strengths so our children get the best possible education."