WITH more than 220 primary schools across East Lancashire this is a fascinating category as tiny village primaries are up against urban rivals with hundreds more pupils and voluntary-aided schools compete with religious faith institutions.

One thing that has always been noticed by the judges is a school’s ‘can do’ attitude and that was certainly evident last year when St Andrew’s CE Primary in Oswaldtwistle won the award. In order to save money, the staff had worked together after school to create an amazing outdoor area for the pupils, including sensory paths, a mud kitchen and mud pit.

The parents and children had also donated tombola prizes to raise money to enhance learning. The judges singled out the school for its great teamwork and positive ethos.

Primary school is a key time for youngsters to find out that learning can be fun and imbue in them a lifelong interest in finding out about new things in whatever career they choose to go into. As well as ensuring pupils can read and write and have grasped basic numeracy, primary schools open the doors to the world for many pupils – from art and sport to science and nature.

This year the category is being sponsored by Our Lady & St John Catholic College, Blackburn.

Head teacher Patrick Murden explained why they were so delighted to be associated with the award.

He said: “We are sponsoring the Primary School of the Year in recognition of a tremendous year for the borough that saw the strengths of the Education provision for young people in the town shine through in school performance tables.

“This reflects the commitment of all involved to improving Blackburn with Darwen students’ life chances including local businesses, the Local Authority, parents, colleges and the schools themselves who have worked in successful partnerships to drive success.

“In particular, it reflects most on the strong outcomes of our young people.

“There is much to celebrate in our schools. We have talented teachers, talented pupils and school leaders committed to the very best standards in ducational practice.

“This award, though celebrating one school, will allow the high standards and achievements of pupils in the borough to shine through.

“We are delighted to sponsor the award.”