A VILLAGE primary and its headteacher came top of the class in a regional education awards scheme.
St Joseph's RCVA Primary School, in Coundon, enjoyed double success in the North-East Schools Awards last week when it picked up the two top awards.
It was named best overall school in the region and Stefa McManners was named headteacher of the year.
The Roman Catholic school has 132 pupils from Coundon, Leeholme, Shildon and surrounding communities.
Mrs McManners, headteacher for 26 years, said: "I'm thrilled with these awards, it is down to the efforts of staff, pupils and the wider community.
"Nobody can be successful in isolation, all the staff work hard and we have very supportive parents and governors who all want what is best for our children."
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