CHORLEY'S primary schools are top of the class!

Most of the primary schools in the borough gained top marks in the recent league table results -- with one school achieving full marks in all subjects tested.

The results of the league tables - based on assessments of Key Stage 2 pupils in English, maths and science - show the percentage of children who achieved, or exceeded, Level 4 -- the achievement level expected of 11-year-olds at Key Stage 2.

Scholars at Withnell Fold primary school, Withnell, celebrated a magnificent hat trick -- 100 per cent in English, maths and science. Head teacher Sue Teale praised children, staff and parents for their achievement. She said: "Obviously we are delighted. We like to work hard and we like to achieve what we can and as long as each child achieves their potential and does their best we are very pleased.

The children of Adlington primary, in Park Road, Adlington, were also celebrating after the school achieved 100 per cent in maths and science, and 95 per cent in English. The results lifted their combined total to 295 points out of a possible 300 -- a rise of 99 points since 1997.

Head teacher Ruth Laurie said: "We had an Ofsted in March and it showed tremendous improvement over the last four years. Certainly the quality of teaching has improved."

And she praised the children, parents, and staff. "We have got a really good team here of staff. I am a very lucky head teacher," she said.

In total seven Chorley schools achieved 100 per cent in one or more subjects -- compared to the national average results of 75 per cent for English, 72 per cent for maths, and 85 per cent for science.

County councillor Hazel Harding, chairman of Lancashire County Council's education and cultural services committee, said: "Lancashire schools are maintaining a trend of improvement and the results are significantly above the national average in all subjects."