A primary school in Whitehaven is currently celebrating after receiving an award for their history teaching.

St Mary's CP School at Kells in Whitehaven has received the Gold Historical Association Quality Mark, for the school’s provision of history teaching and learning. This is the highest level of the award that can be achieved.

An assessment was carried out by an assessor from the Historical Association who observed lessons and talked with pupils, it was found that the teaching in this department was outstanding.

Head Teacher, Susan Starkie said: "We are delighted with the outcome of the Quality Mark. Receiving gold is a testament to the hard work, dedication and efforts of the children, staff and the whole school community- it really is a team achievement. The children are so enthusiastic about their learning and just love to talk and learn about all things history."

The school say they are very proud of the achievement. They have received a certificate to display and their success will be featured in History Association journals, publications and the website.

The Quality Mark is a rolling programme and schools register at any time. The school is then able to begin preparing as soon as they sign up. Normally schools will have one year from date of registration to complete the Mark.

St Mary’s will keep their Quality Mark for three years following the initial award before completing the process again.

To find out more information about St Mary's School please visit: https://www.kells-stmarys.cumbria.sch.uk/.