28339/1A PRIMARY school in Trowbridge has won a prestigious national award. Grove Primary School has been presented with a Basic Skills Quality Mark for the way it teaches reading, writing, spelling and numbers.

Deputy headteacher Gary Phillips said: "We are thrilled that the achievement at Grove has been recognised through this award.

"Grove is a good school offering its pupils a broad and balanced education within a caring family-like environment."

To qualify for the award the school, which has 385 pupils aged between five and 11, had to put together a large amount of evidence.

It had to show how the school plans to improve pupils' basic skills and to encourage parents to get involved in their children's education.

Chairman of governors Neil Laird said: "I am delighted that Grove has gained this national recognition.

"I know how hard the children and teachers work. They deserve this award."

The award was presented by Wiltshire's director of education, Bob Wolfson.

The quality mark is awarded by the Basic Skills Agency, an independent body supporting the Government's pledge to ensure that all children leave school with literacy and numeracy skills that will equip them for adult life.