PUPILS in Blackburn and Darwen are celebrating being among the top brains of Britain.

More than twice as many 11-year-olds in the borough have improved their performance in English tests than the national average.

And in maths and science local pupils are also well ahead of their peers in other regions.

Two local primary schools have shown massive improvements that are unlikely to be matched anywhere in Britain.

Nationally, five per cent more children than last year achieved level four in the key stage two tests in core subjects. But in Blackburn with Darwen the increase is a huge 11 per cent.

At Roman Road Primary School, the increase in pupils hitting the national target in maths was an astonishing 44 per cent.

Headteacher Liz Fisher said: "This achievement is the result of a great deal of hard work and dedication by staff and pupils. "The school has helped pilot the numeracy project and this has contributed to our success."

At Meadowhead Juniors, 34 per cent more children have achieved level four in English and maths.

Headteacher Janet Knight said: "We are all delighted with the excellent results. Our success is due to the effort, commitment, motivation and teamwork of everyone involved. This includes teachers, pupils, support staff and parents."

Mark Pattison, Blackburn with Darwen Council's director of education and training, said: "It is an excellent achievement.

"But there is no room for complacency and we need to build on these positive improvements and ensure that standards are raised for all pupils, regardless of ability."

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