A COUNTY Durham school has been praised for its academic and sporting excellence.

St Michael's C of E Primary School, in Bishop Middleham, County Durham, has made it into the top two per cent of all primary schools in the country after its class of year one pupils all passed a phonics test.

The class of 16 children took the screening check in June and the school recently received a letter from the government congratulating them on the achievement.

Head teacher Lindsey Vollans said: "I'm over the moon as it sets the children up to do well at school.

"For the last two-and-a-half years we've been running a programme called Sounds Right which teaches the children to write at the same time as seeing (imagining) phonics.

"We've also got really good teachers who are focused on the children doing their best."

Meanwhile the school has received the Sainsbury's School Games Gold Mark for its commitment, engagement and delivery of competitive school sport.

It is believed to be one of about 30 schools in the country, including secondary schools, to receive the award.

"The award recognises the provision we make for physical exercise and activities in school and the opportunities we provide to children," said Ms Vollans. "We make sure every child gets a chance to go to competitions and have introduced different sports, not just run of the mill sports.

"We've had judo tasting sessions and squash and we take part in every competition that is put on locally."