A PRIMARY school has been praised by a schools minister for its work with disadvantaged pupils.

David Laws MP wrote to Framwellgate Moor Primary School, in Durham City, to congratulate the headteacher and school on how the key stage two results of its disadvantaged pupils had improved in recent years.

Mr Laws said the results showed the school had been highly effective in educating disadvantaged pupils, given them a good start in life and prepared them well for secondary school.

“I would like to congratulate your staff, governors, parents and pupils for their hard work and success, and thank you for your leadership in making such a difference to the future success of your pupils,” he added.

Headteacher Bethan Smith said: “I was delighted to receive such a prestigious letter, which recognises the outstanding work which goes on in our school.

“The letter acknowledges that since 2011 we have continued to consistently improve progress and attainment for the pupils across our school.”

County councillor Mark Wilkes, a school governor, said: “The additional pupil premium funding has helped to secure improvements in attainment.

“However, the real credit for improvement must go to the staff, headteacher and indeed the hard work of so many young people at the school.”

The school has 210 pupils, plus a large nursery.