AN MP has praised a school for meeting high standards in numeracy and literacy teaching.

St Margaret Clitherow RC Primary School, Cole Close, Thamesmead, has been awarded the Primary Quality Mark by the Government's Basic Skills Agency.

Erith and Thamesmead MP John Austin has written to headteacher Yvonne Trott to congratulate her on the school's achievement.

The school had to meet 10 elements to win the award.

These included providing a target to improve the school's performance and involving parents in developing children's basic skills.

In a letter to the headteacher, Mr Austin said: "I wish to add my congratulations to you and your staff for all the hard work which has led to this award and thank you for the valuable contribution which you are making to improve educational standards and outcomes for my constituents."