THE passion of pupils and teachers at a County Durham school has been hailed after it secured a spot in England’s top one per cent for attainment in writing and maths.

St Michael’s C of E Primary School, in Bishop Middleham, near Sedgefield, received a letter from Minister of State for School Standards, Nick Gibb, congratulating its success.

Of the youngsters sitting Key Stage Two SATS last year, 100 per cent achieved expected standards.

Deputy headteacher Beth Dawson said: “Obviously for us it means that our children have done really well and have achieved a massive potential.

“And for the staff it means all their hard work has really paid off for the children, especially with the rise in standards of the curriculum.”

Around 20 students sat the exams last year.

Mrs Dawson said she believed the school’s success was a result of the consistency in the teaching approach from the outset, links with parents and passion of pupils and staff.

Since the announcement the board of governors has given the go ahead for the school to open a nursery in September.