STAFF and pupils of Staindrop Primary have received an unexpected early Christmas present after the school made it into the top 25 best primary schools in the country, beating their listing last year.
It is not the first time the school has made it to the Sunday Times’ list, which takes into account achievements in reading, grammar and maths. Last year the school was listed as the 125th.
This year, even with all of the disruptions and difficulties surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, the school has jumped 100 places.
Headteacher Steve Whelerton said: “It is fantastic news for us. In a way for us being in the top 250 would have been quite impressive, but to be in the top 25 is a testament to the staff and parents who have put in an amazing effort for the children.
“We are blessed with wonderful school and children.”
News of the accolade came only two weeks after the school made it to the final of the TES School Awards. Staindrop was one of eight shortlisted as primary school of the year. He added: “The TES awards was a really wonderful achievement for us.”
The Sunday Times list focusses on achievement but the TES awards look at how schools nurture pupils.
Mr Whelerton said: “It is always nice to be recognised for the work we do and this year, it has given us all a boost.
“The one thing that stands out is the nurturing and the enjoyment the children have during their time here at the school.
“Certainly, in these times when you have children
who want to be in school it has been lovely to see so many smiling faces on our return.”
Head girl Alexandra Kirkup said she was delighted the school had been recognised.
She added: “It’s a real family feel here at school. It was not fun working from home. The teachers make it fun. It was weird not having the teachers there to teach us.”
