YOUNG pupils in Hampshire schools are still performing above the national average, according to latest figures.

It follows the publication of provisional key stage two test results which shows the pupils are continuing to excel in reading, writing and maths.

This year’s results are the first to be released following the introduction of a more rigorous curriculum that raises expectations of pupils’ literacy and numeracy. In Hampshire, 59 per cent of pupils reached the national standard in reading, writing and mathematics compared to 53 per cent nationally.

And the results have prompted praise from county councillor Peter Edgar, who said: “I’m pleased to see the already very good performance of Hampshire pupils is continuing to improve. Last year our pupils were three per cent above the national average, and this year provisional results suggest they are six per cent above the national average. This is testament to the hard work of pupils and teachers across Hampshire.”

The Government’s benchmark of performance has been significantly raised this year. Raising the bar has meant that fewer children nationally, as well as in Hampshire, have met the new attainment level.

The Department for Education has reported that nationally 53 per cent of pupils achieved the benchmark level this year when being taught and assessed against the new tougher criteria. This compares to an 80 per cent achievement rate under the previous system.

Commenting on the change in benchmarking, Mr Edgar added: “The Education Secretary, Nicky Morgan, has acknowledged that schools are making a transition to a more rigorous system and that she expects the numbers of children reaching the national standard to reflect this difficult change. However, I can appreciate that this difference in results will be hard to accept for those pupils and teachers who have worked hard to drive up standards.

“I would urge parents and pupils to remember that the drop in numbers meeting the national standard does not reflect a drop in performance, but a raising of the bar. Hampshire’s schools can be very proud of a good set of results, and I would like to congratulate pupils and school staff for all their efforts.”