'This is a record-breaking achievement for our school' - new Derbyshire head's pride after improved SATS results exceed national average

Arkwright Primary School pupils achieved a combined score of 70% in reading. writing and mathematics, which is well above the national average and represents a 20% improvement on last year’s results. The national average this year was 63%.

The north Debyshire school’s individual subject results were equally impressive: reading – 90%, writing – 90%, grammar, punctuation and spelling – 90%, mathematics – 80%.

New headteacher Sophie Ruddiforth said: “This is a record-breaking achievement for our school. To the best of my knowledge, we have never achieved results as strong as these. I am incredibly proud of our pupils, whose hard work, determination and resilience have made this possible. These fantastic outcomes reflect the support of our famiies, and the commitment of our entire school community.

"Our children are extremely proud of what they have achieved, and they are more than ready for the next step in their education. We wish every one of them the very best as they move on to the next stage of their learning journey.”

The school also celebrated the incredible achievement of every year 1 pupil passing the national Phonics Screening Check, securing an outstanding 100% success rate.

Mrs Ruddiforth, who is phonics lead, said: “The greatest skill to give children in education is the ability to read. Children who read early are exposed to new language and experiences. Reading opens doors to learning, imagination and confidence, and we are incredibly proud that every one of our children has achieved this important milestone.”

Throughout the year, teachers have worked tirelessly to deliver engaging, high-quality phonics lessons that inspire children to become enthusiastic and confident readers. By creating a positive, supportive learning environment, staff have ensured that every child is motivated and ready to succeed.

The school’s phonics programme is built around consistency, enthusiasm and high expectations, with children enjoying daily opportunities to develop their reading skills through interactive lessons, stories and exciting classroom activities.

Parents have also played a vital role by supporting reading at home, helping to strengthen the partnership between school and families that has contributed to this exceptional outcome.

Pupils at the village primary school have achieved exceptional success in the national Multiplication Tables Check for the third consecutive year. This year’s cohort recorded an oustanding average score of 24.4 out of a possible 25 marks.

The Multiplication Tables Check assesses children’s rapid recall of times tables up to 12 × 12 and is a key benchmark in primary mathematics. With a near-perfect average, Arkwright Primary’s pupils have demonstrated an exceptional level of fluency and confidence.

Mrs Ruddiforth said: “The children are times table whizzes. What a great skill to have. Their commitment, enthusiasm and resilience have led to another fantastic set of results, and we couldn’t be prouder of every single one of them.”

The achievement reflects the school’s continued focus on building strong mathematical foundations through engaging teaching and daily practice. Staff say the pupils’ success is a testament to their determination and the support they receive from both teachers and families.

Arkwright Primary School continues to demonstrate that, while it may be a small school, it consistently delivers big results. With smiles all around and a passion for helping every child thrive, the message from the school is clear: "We are Arkwright, and we are proud of our school.”