A SMALL primary school has been named among the top one per cent in the country for attainment in writing and maths.

Year six pupils at Northern Primary School in Bacup all gained 100 per cent in their national SATs in writing and mathematics.

The school received a congratulatory letter from schools minister Nick Gibb which headteacher Jackie Marr described as a ‘complete shock’.

Mrs Marr, who took over as head in September, paid tribute to the previous headteacher Jane Simpson.

She said: “We knew how well the school had done and we are really proud of the achievements of our pupils particularly as this was the ‘new-style’ SATs tests, which were hailed nationally as more difficult.

“We had already been informed that our results were one of the best in Rossendale, but to be in the top one per cent in the country is a fantastic accolade and a tribute to the hard work put in by pupils, parents and staff.

“It is the teamwork between Years 5 and 6 that enabled the children to achieve so highly. We have a strong team across the school in Northern and that allows our pupils to achieve their full potential.”

Rossendale and Darwen MP Jake Berry also his praise to the 190-pupil school’s achievements: “This is no doubt a reflection of the hard work and determination from all those involved at Northern Primary in obtaining a great result; what a fantastic achievement.

“It gives me a great sense of pride that the Rossendale Valley has such a high standard of education.”