A headteacher who has raised standards and aspirations at a village primary school was rewarded with an invitation to Downing Street this week.

Lisa Jackson was one of 150 headteachers at the two-hour reception hosted by Prime Minister Tony Blair and his wife, Cherie.

Since she arrived at Tow Law Millennium Primary School in April 2001, SAT results have improved and the school has climbed up the league tables.

The school is opening its doors to more community activities, and next term will have extra facilities, such as a baby room, and offer activities through links with a new Sure Start service at Stanhope.

Mrs Jackson said: "I am very proud of my school. I have an excellent staff and a fantastic team of committed governors.

"I was invited to Downing Street because we are one of the top 100 improving schools but we are about more than exam results. We look at the bigger picture. The atmosphere has improved, children are keen to learn and they are happy to come to school.

"Children are not going to achieve their full potential unless they are engaged in the learning process and they are happy.

"Downing Street was wonderful. Tony Blair looked very well and relaxed. He is a very humorous person and seemed very genuine when he thanked us for our contributions."