Latest performance tables show most schools in the Halstead area achieved more than 70 per cent in their Key Stage Two results.

The Government benchmark is 65 per cent of pupils achieving level four or above in reading, writing and maths - an increase on 60 per cent last year.

All but four schools met the minimum target.

Nine pupils at Belchamp St Paul Primary School achieved the highest scores in the Halstead area, with 89 per cent passing Level Four or above in reading, writing and maths.

* Full story and results in this week's Halstead Gazette.