CASTLEMORTON CE Primary School has been recognised as one of the best performing schools in the country and awarded additional funding of £55,000 over the next three years.

The school was given Beacon School status last week as part of a Government initiative launched in September, 1998, to raise overall standards of pupil performance and to close the gap between the best and worst performing schools.

Mary Worthington, headteacher at the school, said that the venture was very exciting.

"We'll be using it to work with other schools in the area, to share ideas," she said.

"And also for ICT development, integrating it more into normal classroom practice."

There are currently 1,000 Beacon schools around the country, which have to spend their funds on developing and sharing their best practice.

The aim is to help establish a culture of self-reflection and systematic self-evaluation for school improvement.

"Since the initiative began, it has become clear that Beacon schools are contributing to the establishment of strong collaborative partnerships between local schools," said Kirsty Watt, spokesman for the Department for Education and Skills.

"Staff from partner schools are telling us of the positive benefits of working with beacon schools in terms of increased morale, renewal of enthusiasm, new ideas and access to relevant resources and documentation."

Mrs Worthington added: "It's going to be a good project I think and a big opportunity for several schools.

"Pupils, parents, governors, teaching and non-teaching staff all work hard and make vital contributions to the success of the school."