THREE primary schools in Bolton have been congratulated by a Government Minister for being among the top schools in the country — and urged headteachers to share their expertise with other schools.

Minister of State for Schools David Laws has written to Gaskell Primary, Highfield Primary in Farnworth and Walmsley CE Primary in Egerton.

Highfield Primary School was described in the letter as "exceptionally effective in educating its pupils".

The school is amongst the 100 top performing schools in terms of the progress pupils make, from when they start school in key stage one, to key stage two when they leave.

Mr Laws congratulated the school for its hard work and "continuing the drive towards high standards of educational achievement".

Headteachers at Gaskell Primary School and Walmsley CE Primary School were encouraged by Mr Laws to "share your achievements with other schools so that they can learn from your strengths and experience".

Both schools won £1,000 in the key stage two category of the Pupil Premium Awards for their work with children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Gaskell Primary School is one of the most improved schools in the country for attainment and progress of its disadvantaged pupils since 2011.

Walmsley CE Primary School was praised for being one of the high achieving schools in the country in terms of the attainment and progress of its disadvantaged pupils since 2011.

Mr Laws wrote in his letters to both schools: "It is clear that you and your staff have provided your disadvantaged pupils with a good start in life and prepared them well for secondary school.

"I would like to congratulate your staff, governors, parents and pupils for their hard work and success and thank you for your leadership in making such a difference to the future success of your pupils."

Head of Walmsley CE Primary School, Debra Carr said: "The letter arrived totally unexpectedly, it was a lovely surprise.

"I am really proud of everybody.

"It recognises the work from every single member of staff, the children and the support of our parents."

Chairman of governors Pauline Lewis added: "t is rare for a school such as Walmsley to gain any plaudit as it consistently does things so well.

"The school and governors already do share a considerable amount of their skills and good practice, not only locally with other schools but across Bolton and in some instances on a wider basis.

"This is a significant award in terms of the schools budgeting and financial planning and major recognition of the achievement from the Government."