FIVE Alton schools are among 140 schools in Hampshire which have won School Achievement Awards.

AndrewÕs Endowed, Bentley Primary, Bushey Leaze Pre-school, Chawton Park (Pupil Referral Unit) and Cheriton Primary, have all been awarded extra cash for their achievements over the past year.

The government money is being allocated to schools which have seen improvements in pupil performance and those that have come out of special measures. The amount received is based on the schoolÕs size.

Cash injections of between £1,400 and £40,000 are being given to the schools to share among staff as cash bonuses for their work.

Don Allen, Hampshire County CouncilÕs executive member for education, said: ÒThe awards are excellent news and I congratulate the schools which have been recognised for their achievements.

ÒHowever, there are many other schools and units in Hampshire where staff have worked tremendously hard and I would share with them some disappointment at not being highlighted.

ÒIt is right to recognised schools for good achievements, but my priority for extra cash would be for those which face the greatest challenges.

ÒStandards at our schools in Hampshire are high and the county council is committed to ensuring that these are maintained and further improved. Indeed, our support for schools has been highlighted by Her MajestyÕs Chief Inspector who referred to Hampshire as showing, Ôwhat LEA work at its best could achieveÕ.Ó