A DRIVE to push up maths and literacy standards at a school in Breightmet has been hailed a success.

Twelve months ago, the headteacher of Withins School, Phil Mather, recruited a new head of maths and an advanced English skills teacher.

The move has seen the number of teenagers leaving with the required five or more A* to C GCSEs, including English and maths, rise from 13 per cent to 25 per cent.

Mr Mather said: "We are pleased with the results and expect them to rise again next year.

"We have improved assessment procedures and know exactly what progress each pupil is making, and what extra help they require.

"The hard work and commitment of staff, and also the pupils, has brought about this big improvement, which I know will continue in coming years."

The improvement in results has seen Withins rise in the borough's school league tables, from bottom last year to number 17 this year.

Mr Mather said: "We have improved our GCSE results as a whole, and hope to reach the 30 per cent target of those gaining five or more A* to C GCSEs which include maths and English.

"I have also brought in an advanced skills science teacher so we should also see a rise in pupils getting good grades in that subject."

9:03am Thursday 10th January 2008

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