EASTROP and Pinehurst Infant schools were singled out for awards this week from the Government's Basic Skills Agency.

The agency's director Alan Wells visited the schools to present them with Primary Quality Mark plaques.

The award recognises the high standards of literacy and numeracy being achieved in the schools. Swindon Borough Council's lead member for Education and Community, Garry Perkins, said: "The quality mark provides a framework for all children in the school to continuously improve their basic skills and this includes those who underachieve."

Headteacher, Sue Marshall, from Eastrop Primary in Highworth, said: "We are delighted to receive the award and feel it recognises the hard work and commitment of all the staff in raising standards and ensuring our children receive the very best education."

Four other Swindon schools have achieved the Primary Quality Mark:

Oliver Tomkins Infants, Goddard Park Primary, South Marston Primary and Lainesmead Primary.