THREE primary schools in York have won national praise for their work with disadvantaged pupils.

Clifton Green Primary, Poppleton Road Primary and Westfield Primary schools have all received a congratulatory letter from David Laws, Minister for Schools, following the excellent results of children from poorer backgrounds.

The recognition shows that the schools have shown consistent high attainment of their disadvantaged pupils between 2012 and 2014 in reading, writing and maths.

It also reflects the fact that high proportions of these pupils are making the expected progress in these skills, while there is also consistently high or improving attainment for other pupils.

The three schools have also got a ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ rating in their latest Ofsted inspection.

Schools in York are working with City of York Council and other partners to close the gap between the results of pupils from poor backgrounds and their peers.

Debbie Glover, head teacher at Poppleton Road Primary School, said: “It was fantastic to receive a letter from David Laws in recognition for the relentless hard work, commitment and dedication from the whole of our school community.”

Tracey Ralph, head teacher at Westfield Primary, said: “The letter was specifically about Key Stage 2 test results, but we are successful with pupils sustained improvements in standards and it is lovely for the staff to receive recognition for all their hard work, along with our parents, community and governors who have helped our children achieve this. "

Dave Brown, head teacher at Clifton Green, said: “We expect all pupils to make good progress at Clifton Green regardless of their background or circumstances. The high levels of achievement over the last few years have been down to the hard work of pupils, parents, staff and governors and we are pleased that this has been recognised by Mr Laws and by Ofsted.”

Councillor Janet Looker, cabinet member for education, children and young people, said: “Schools across the city are working very hard to raise the attainment levels and aspirations of all pupils, but particularly those who are disadvantaged. I’m delighted that the achievements of three of our schools have been highlighted nationally.”