STAFF at Kirklevington Primary, at Kirklevington, near Yarm, Teesside, are celebrating after being named one of the region's best performing schools.

Last year, 82 per cent of 11-year-olds achieved at least standard level four in their tests in English and maths, with 96 per cent in science. It saw them gain a ranking of 21 across Stockton.

But this year, the school has come out in the number one position within the Local Education Authority area, with 100 per cent of pupils achieving level four in English and science, and 96 per cent in maths.

Headteacher Yvonne Lloyd said she was "absolutely delighted".

But she said the league tables failed to take into account those children who had worked hard, but had not achieved level four.

"I think it is sad that we cannot celebrate the hard work carried out by those children, and by their teachers, but it is still nice to be recognised," she said.

"It all very much depends on the children. We have had a brilliant year group. As far as we are concerned, if a child has done their best and if their best means getting a level three, we celebrate that as well."

The school's chairman of governors, Martin Greenwood, said: "We are very proud of our situation in terms of the level of achievement in comparison with previous years and other schools."

But he added: "We remain concerned that comparisons are not made on a like-for-like basis. Our aim continues to be directed at achieving a high level of progress for each child."