HOLLYMOUNT Primary School won Primary School of the Year in 2017 and its head of school said the award has raised its profile.

The school in Hollymount Road scooped the prestigious title at the Worcestershire Education Awards.

Emma Pritchard, head of school, said: “People notice the banner on our website. So I think it has raised our profile, which is amazing.”

Miss Pritchard added: “The children are really proud – we presented them the award in an assembly.”

Headteacher Vivienne Cranton also believes the award was important for the school.

She said: “In this area people are not used to winning awards and prizes.

“Everyone was so proud. For us it was wonderful – it was really a team award.”

Judges opted for the school after hearing that in 2016 the number of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing and maths was 66 per cent, 13 per cent higher than the national figures.

Good progress was also made by disadvantaged children and children with English as an additional language, reaching standards that were higher than the national average.

This was achieved despite many of the children entering reception well below the national average. The school has also supported several other schools over the years, with an ethos that by working collaboratively with other schools, staff and children benefit from the experience.

Speaking at the awards last year, Mrs Cranton said: “It’s down to the commitment and dedication of everyone in the school from the senior leadership team, the teachers and TAs, cleaners, the admin staff, governors, catering staff and lunchtime supervisors.

“And most of all it’s about the children and their parents.”

Nominations are open until April 20. For more, visit worcesternews.co.uk/educationawards/nominate

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