Monkfield Park Primary School has been awarded the Challenge Award from the National Association for Able Children in Education (NACE) for achieving above national averages, particularly in mathematics, for its able pupils.

Assessors judged the quality of the school's work by observing lessons, interviewing pupils, teachers, parents and governors and by looking at pupils' work.

Monkfield Park is the first school in Cambridgeshire and the fifty-second in the UK to achieve the award.

Headteacher Lynne Anderson said: "We feel extremely proud to be the first primary school in Cambridgeshire to be awarded this prestigious accolade.

"It reflects the school's expertise and competence in delivering high quality teaching and learning to all of its pupils. I would like to thank all staff, pupils, parents, carers, Governors and invited guests for the tremendous support they have given to the school."

The accolade has come amidst a controversial consultation for a much needed third primary school in the village.

Last week villagers were given a preview of what the new school – proposed to sit on Jeavons Wood and set to be managed by the Comberton Trust – would look like.

Nick Johnson, Chairman of the Cambourne Village Association (CVA), who have been campaigning for the swift construction of a school but on an alternative site, believes Monkfield's award highlights the need for more school places.

Mr Johnson explained that to continue a high standard of teaching in the village, a new school is vital, especially as 22 children were unable to find spaces at the other two schools this academic year.

Mr Johnson said: "It's obviously great news for Monkfields, but in terms of the third primary school it just makes me more frustrated that we can't get another school in a decent place."

>> Staff and governors will be presented with the award at a special ceremony on Friday (May 9) attended by South Cambridgeshire MP Andrew Lansley and Dr Frankie Williams and General Inspector for Music at Cambridgeshire County Council, both representing the NACE National Committee.