STAFF and pupils at three Swindon schools are celebrating after learning they are among the best at raising pupils' achievements.

For the first time, Local Education Authorities have revealed the 'Value Added Measure' of schools, which clearly show how pupils have improved since they took Sats aged 7.

Schools that have been given a score of 102.0 or more are among the top five per cent nationally.

The three who achieved that target: Abbey Meads Community School (102.0); Freshbrook Primary School (102.0); Nythe Primary School (103.2)

Nythe is celebrating coming joint top for science with 100 per cent of pupils attaining level four.

Headteacher Debbie Kalynka, said: "This is a reflection of the hard work that we have put in over the past year.

"We have had problems in the past but we are working hard to put that behind us."

Mrs Kalynka arrived at the school in Nythe Road 18 months ago when threats of closures fuelled by dropping pupil numbers hung in the air.

It was also, at that time, in "serious weaknesses" a term used to describe a period of constant monitoring by HM Inspectors.

She says the dedication of her staff has allowed the school to get back on its feet.

"The teachers are all extremely dedicated and they do their best for the children not just those who we expect to do well in exams," she said.

"Our teachers do not simply teach to the test they are passing on skills and knowledge that they will need in later life."

The headteacher acknowledged however, that league tables do not always serve as the best indicator of a school's progress.

"They are just one small indicator of what is going on in a school generally and it is important that they are viewed as such," she said.

Mrs Kalynka also thanked parents who have backed teachers.

She said: "You really cannot underestimate the importance of the parents in this process.

"We are lucky at this school in that we have very supportive parents who regularly attend assemblies and support school trips financially."