A local school has beat off competition from the rest of the UK to grab a top spot in primary league tables.

The Abbey Primary in Grove Road, St Albans, has claimed third place out of 21,444 schools nationwide in a table published by the Department for Education outlining Level 5 SATS results.

An extremely high proportion of The Abbey pupils achieved a Level 5 or above, with 83 per cent of pupils reaching the top level in reading, writing and maths when most 11 year olds are expected to achieve Level 4.

The school came top in Hertfordshire, and was only beaten to the top UK spot by two other schools.

Headteacher Miss Emma Fenn said: “I am extremely proud of all 210 pupils in our school and the fact that our Year 6 pupils are consistently performing at a level so far above the national expectation in their SATs is something the whole school community is delighted with.

“Abbey Primary School has always been far more than just SATs results.

“Our children receive a well-rounded education, with the highest expectations and a love of learning that emanates throughout every aspect of Abbey School life.”

Debbie Gupta, chair of governors, added: “I would also like to pay tribute to the dedicated and inspiring teachers at the Abbey Primary School.

“Our teaching and support staff are excellent and these results are a testimony to their commitment and professionalism.”

Wood End in Harpenden and Maple and St Michaels in St Albans also made it into the top 20 schools in Hertfordshire.