Schools toast inspector's praise

Many schools say a united approach to work is the key

Schools across the North West have been toasting their success after being praised by the government.

Almost 60 primary and secondary schools have received plaudits for high quality Ofsted reports and good standard assessment tests (Sats) results.

Out of the total of 58, 13 that were on special measures for poor performance in the past have been praised in the annual list from the Chief Inspector of Schools.

Many schools say their success has been down to teachers, pupils, parents and governors working towards common goals.

It is a testament to all the hardwork that we have done together

Samantha Oates, Bamber Bridge St Aidan's Church of England Primary School

Mike Randall, headteacher of Cathcart Street Primary School, Merseyside, told BBC News Online it will be difficult to maintain a place on the list because of the deprived area the school serves.

He said: "We have 70% of our children are on free school meals.

"But irrespective of the problems that causes, our success is down to communication between everyone in the system, who are all working together."

Samantha Oates, headteacher of Bamber Bridge St Aidan's Church of England Primary School in Lancashire, agreed a united approach to working was the key.

Sponsorship deal

"It is a testament to all the hardwork that we have done together, towards improving standards," she said.

"But we're not resting on our laurels we're fundraising to finance a new classroom, so we can build on this."

Ashton-on-Mersey School Sports College in Trafford, Greater Manchester, benefits from a six-figure sponsorship deal with Manchester United and Nike.

Headteacher Taran Kapur said however, that its pupils come from a mixed socio-economic background.

He said: "It is great for the children and staff for it to be recognised that we are doing a good job."