TEACHERS and pupils are celebrating after a Hale school gained a top ranking in a national newspaper table.

Hale Preparatory School achieved ninth place out of 250 in a Sunday Times list of the country’s top private primary schools.

It has risen from 20th in last year’s list, achieving its position through exam results.

Its ranking means it is the highest placed co-educational school on the list.

The independent, fee-paying Broomfield Road school was founded in 1980 by current headmaster John Connor and has 189 boys and girls, aged four to 11, on its books.

Mr Connor said: "Whilst examination results are a big part of the school, it’s very pleasing when the efforts of pupils and teachers, together with the support of the parents, is acknowledged.

"I am delighted that the school has been recognised in this way."

The Times’ list is based on the children’s SAT results and Hale Prep has made it on to the list for several years.

In 2004 it was named as the newspaper’s prep school of the year.

Mr Connor said the ranking was another boost after another achievement earlier this year.

He said: "This was the second accolade the school received this year.

"In the summer, after a comprehensive four-day inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, the school was classed as outstanding in every category."

The school was judged on the quality of education it provided, the way it cared for its pupils and the way it was run.

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