EIGHT more schools in Hartlepool have earned a Government award for their high standards.

Elwick Hall, Hart, Throston, St John Vianney, Clavering, St Helen's and Greatham Primary Schools and Seaton Carew Nursery School are the latest to be given the Quality Mark by the Basic Skills Agency.

It means that 80 per cent of the town's primary schools have now gained the award.

To gain the Quality Mark, which covers basic skills including English and maths, schools must meet ten tough standards. These include having an action plan to improve youngsters' performance, using a range of teaching styles to boost that performance, regularly reviewing each child's progress, and involving parents in developing their child's skills.

Alan Farrage, Hartlepool Borough Council's education advisor, said: "Without a good grasp of basic skills, such as English and maths, youngsters' development and self-confidence can be severely hampered, so it's vital they receive the best possible help and support.