A Harold Hill primary school has been ranked in the top one per cent of the country for the third year running.

Headmaster of Broadford Primary School, Malcolm Drakes, was thrilled to receive a letter from the Minister of State for Schools, Nick Gibb MP, on the final day of the Autumn term.

The letter congratulated him, his staff and the school’s pupils on not only being in the top 1pc but also the top 100 schools in the country in regard to the progress pupils make between Key Stage 1 and the end of Key Stage 2.

Mr Drakes said: “We are so proud of the achievement of our pupils.

“With over 50pc of our pupils coming from disadvantaged backgrounds this fantastic progress is only possible if every member of the school community buys into the vision – no child’s future should be determined by their socio-economic background.

“Having this recognition from the Department of Education gives everyone a boost and makes us even more determined to exceed these results next year!”

The school has made a dramatic turnaround in the last four years. In 2011 it was ranked in the lowest 10pc of schools for progress in reading, writing and maths. It is now celebrating its third year in the top 1pc and its first year in the top 100.

Mr Gibb wrote: “We want to make sure that every child progresses to the very best of their ability in reading, writing and mathematics so that they have the fluency in these subjects to enable them to succeed at secondary school and beyond. Your school is clearly putting great effort into achieving this.

“Thank you for your work in continuing the drive towards high standards of educational achievement and congratulations again to you and your staff.”

Gill Gordon, chair of governors, added: “Each year we have set ourselves high standards to reach and we all work together as a school community to reach those aspirational goals.”