SCHOOLS in Bolton have been singled out for praise by the Government for being among the country’s top performers.

Schools minister David Laws has written to four primary school to congratulate them personally on their results in the national curriculum tests.

The Bolton News reported that schools posted record breaking results in their Key Stage Two SATs, and this week, some schools were identified as being in the top 100 in the country.

Scared Heart RC in Westhoughton, St Saviour’s CE in Ringley and St Teresa’s RC Primary School in Little Lever were highlighted after every pupil in the schools passed the tests. The schools also posted perfect results in the three “measures” — 100 per cent of children achieving the required level four or above in English and maths and making at least the expected progress in both those subjects.

Headteacher of St Saviour’s CE Primary, Ian Southern said: “The school is delighted with the recognition we have received for all the children attaining level four or above.

“This is testament to the fantastic children we have to work with, the backing they get from their parents, the continued hard work of all our staff and governors and the excellent support improvement partner, and the Bolton curriculum teams.”

St Stephen and All Martyrs’ CE School in Darcy Lever was congratulated for being among the top 100 which showed the most sustained improvement in each year between 2009 and 2012.

Mr Laws said: “I would like to congratulate all staff, governors and pupils for their hard work and success and to thank the head for the leadership in continuing the drive towards the highest standards of educational achievement.”

Martyn Cox, vice-chairman of Bolton Council’s children’s services scrutiny committee, added: “Primary schools have made some very good progress in recent years, particularly in Bolton.

“We are especially pleased with the results of Sacred Heart, St Teresa’s, St Saviours and St Stephen and All Martyrs, which have done outstandingly well.

“This success will be based on a lot of hard work from some dedicated staff, talented heads and motivated children.

“If Bolton is to progress as a town it is essential we continue to raise educational achievement and individual aspiration.”