Government Praises Scarborough Primary School For Nationally Outstanding Results

Children and staff at a Scarborough primary school are celebrating after receiving a letter of praise from the Government for achieving results that place the school among the very best in the country.

St Martin’s Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School was personally congratulated by the Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson. The letter highlighted the exceptional outcomes achieved by disadvantaged pupils at the end of the 2024/25 academic year, noting that the school’s success demonstrates “what is possible” for children regardless of their background.

Despite being situated in one of the most deprived areas of Scarborough, the school saw its Year 6 pupils significantly narrow the attainment gap, reaching high standards across reading, writing, and maths.

Headteacher Claire Barber said:

“We are all delighted. The staff work tirelessly to ensure that all children achieve their potential so to hear from the Secretary of State for Education was a bit of a surprise but welcomed by everyone here. Our vision and values are important in supporting children from all backgrounds alongside high expectations to help pupils be the best they can be. As a church school, our motto is to ‘serve one another in love’ so in all we do, we always come back to that and ensure that everybody is being nurtured and treated fairly to flourish and thrive.”

Mrs Barber added:

“Having high expectations that are communicated to the children is important, but creating a culture in school where relationships are really valued and nurtured to help the pupils to believe in themselves is equally important. It is a privilege to be a part of any child’s journey and know that you can have an impact.”

The achievement has been welcomed by local leaders as a proud moment for the entire community. Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for education, learning and skills, said:

“I am immensely proud of everyone at St Martin’s and the hard work and dedication shown by the staff who have supported all pupils and ensured they make exceptional progress and achieve well. This national acknowledgement is fantastic news, huge congratulations to everyone at St Martins.”