There has been a sharp rise in the number of children reaching required levels of reading, writing and mathematics on leaving primary school in Redbridge.

A total of 85 per cent of pupils achieved the required level 4 at Key stage two.

This compares to 78 per cent last academic year and a national average of 79 per cent.

Preliminary results published by the Department of Education place Redbridge as the fourth best performing area in the country.

And the borough was placed fifth for the percentage achieving level 5 or higher, with a total of 31 per cent.

Cabinet member for children and young people, Cllr Elaine Norman, said: “These results are exceptional and have really raised the bar for Redbridge.   

“We have had an impressive track record with Key Stage 2 results in the past and are usually above the national average but to come fourth, moving from 41st last year is an incredible achievement. 

“This also places our children in an excellent position to make the best of the opportunities that await them in secondary schools in September.”