TEACHERS and pupils at a north Durham school have achieved their best Government test results.

Stanley School of Technology's year nine standard assessment test results (Sats), showed a "significant improvement", according to headteacher David Grigg.

In English, 57 per cent of pupils reached National Curriculum level five or above, in maths, 48 per cent of students reached level five or above, and in science, results showed 47 per cent of pupils making the grade.

Mr Grigg said: "These results confirm that we are a rapidly improving school. We predicted that this improvement would happen and much credit must go to the students who have worked so very hard.

"Credit must also go to the staff who prepared the students for these Sats, and to the parents who supported their children so well."

Meanwhile, Mr Grigg announced that one of his pupils had been chosen to receive the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Award for his outstanding contribution to the school.

Greg Woolcock was chosen because of his work in the field of karate. Greg has studied the martial art since he was five and has represented his country many times.