Beormund School tops national table

The value added measure for each school is based on individual pupil progress between Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.

"I would like to congratulate the teachers and pupils of Beormund Primary School and Cobourg Primary School both in Southwark for coming top in value added performance," said schools minister Lord Adonis.

He added: "They should all be delighted with these results, which are a testament to their hard work. It is particularly pleasing to see a special school at the head of the value-added tables.

"We need to recognise and celebrate the contribution of schools like Beormund which are making a reality of the Every Child Matters agenda and helping their pupils to achieve their full potential."

Beormund School, situated on the corner of Long Lane and Crosby Row, is a special school for children who have social, emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Joseph Lancaster Primary School in Harper Road and Boutcher Church of England Primary School in Grange Road ranked seventh and eleventh nationally in the value-added table.

Results are also up across the borough of Southwark, with an average percentage point increase of two percentage points in English (74%), Maths (69%) and science (80%).

Cllr Caroline Pidgeon, executive member for children's services and education in Southwark, said: "This is great news for Southwark schools and a testament to the strong leadership and positive attitudes among teachers, pupils and parents."

In neighbouring Lambeth the level 4 and above rating for English has improved from 76% last year to 78% in 2006. The level 4 and above rating for maths has improved from 68% in 2005 to 70%, with science also up by 1% to 83% this year.