In a proud moment for St Albans, The Times recently unveiled its list of the best 500 primary schools across the UK, with six local schools making the prestigious cut. Topping the chart among St Albans institutions is the Abbey CE VA Primary School, securing the 171st spot on the list. Following closely behind, Killigrew Primary and Nursery School claimed the 198th position, with Maple Primary School not far behind at 204. Skyswood Primary & Nursery School and Oakwood also earned notable rankings, securing the 222nd and 297th spots, respectively.

The recognition by The Times underscores the dedication and excellence exhibited by these schools in providing quality education to their students. Each school underwent rigorous assessment, with English, grammar, and maths scores contributing to their final rankings.

Revd Calum Zuckert, the Cathedral Youth Chaplain, expressed delight at the achievement, stating, "This recognition is fantastic and well-deserved for the Abbey Primary and Cathedral community." He emphasized the close ties between the Abbey Primary School and the Cathedral, including regular collective worships and strong pastoral and community connections. Fr Calum added, "We are thrilled that the staff and pupils' hard work has paid off in this way."

"It is our joy and privilege to work together so closely."

Canon for Mission and Pastoral Care at the Cathedral, The Revd Will Gibbs, is a Governor of Abbey Primary School. Fr Will applauded the school's dedication, saying, "We offer our warm congratulations to the Mrs O’Melia and the staff for this wonderful achievement and further evidence of the fantastic teaching and learning offered at Abbey Primary day by day. It is our joy and privilege to work together so closely." The achievement reflects the outstanding teaching and learning environment fostered at Abbey Primary, reaffirming its commitment to excellence in education.

As one of the Cathedral's two partnered schools, Abbey CE VA Primary School exemplifies the Cathedral's dedication to nurturing academic excellence and student welfare. The recognition of these St Albans schools in The Times' prestigious list sets a benchmark for educational standards in the region, showcasing their unwavering commitment to excellence in education.

Pictured: St Albans Cathedral's Children and Family worker Anna Chambers with members of Abbey Primary.