A NEWTON superschool has been named as one of the top 100 in the country by government inspectors.

St Mary's RC Junior School, at Barn Way, is one of just 94 primary, middle and nursery schools to be singled out for national recognition by HM Chief Inspector, Chris Woodhead.

Only 223 of the 7,284 schools inspected by Ofsted during the past year have been included on the prestigous Special Achievement Listing, released this week.

St Mary's Headteacher Elsie Mullen said it was the proudest day in her 14 years at the school.

"We've made history! We expected a good Ofsted report, but to be singled out by the Chief Inspector is wonderful," she said.

"When the examiners looked at the children's books, they were overwhelmed by their maturity. The children are very articulate and they make their own decisions through the School Council. They even organise our assemblies," she said.

Achievement levels at St Mary's are far in advance of Government guidelines, with many pupils achieving Levels 5 and 6 in English and Maths. Last year, the school achieved the best exam results in the Newton area.

Said Mrs Mullen: "Staff have played a huge role in the school's success. Quality teaching is what really counts in the classroom."

At a special assembly on Tuesday, every child in the school was presented with a commemorative pen. They were even allowed extra playtime to celebrate the occasion!

"The children are delighted, they're very proud. But it's the parents that will really understand what we have achieved," said Mrs Mullen.

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