THE figures show a rise in the percentage of pupils reaching at least the national average in English, mathematics and science at the end of primary school, although Swindon is still behind the national average.

In English the percentage of children achieving the national average has gone up six points to 72 per cent, in mathematics by four points to 70 per cent and in science nine points to 85 per cent.

The national averages are 75 for English, 72 for maths and 82 for science. The year before they were 68 for English and maths and 77 for science.

Mike Lusty, Swindon's director of education said: "I should like to congratulate the achievement of the children and the hard work of their teachers. Seventy-six per cent of schools have increased the percentage of pupils achieving Level 4 and above in maths and 80 per cent of schools have increased the percentage of pupils achieving Level 4 and above in science."

Coun Chris Eley, lead member for lifelong learning said: "Over the last three years we have seen standards in Swindon in English rise by nine per cent and in mathematics by 11 per cent.

"This demonstrates how well teachers have responded to the national literacy and numeracy strategies.

"We have worked with the schools to support them in implementing these strategies and I would want to congratulate all those involved."

League tables for Swindon, Wiltshire and Gloucester appear in the Evening Advertiser, edition Thursday, December 7.