CHILDREN at South Farnham School had their knowledge tested in a very different way as schools minister Nick Gibb paid them a visit.

Welcoming the MP last month, the school announced it was “delighted” to celebrate their results and achievements with Mr Gibb, who particularly enjoyed questioning a year six class.

The minister of state for schools was given a tour of the school, observing mathematics and English lessons in all years.

He said he was “impressed” with the in-depth knowledge shown after quizzing children on their times tables, history of kings and queens and European geography.

The children, who also enjoyed discussing their favourite books, were excited to learn about the role of an MP and what it’s like to go to work at the Houses of Parliament.

In all classrooms Mr Gibb was able to see teachers and children using state-of-the-art interactive touch screens.

Following the tour of the school Mr Gibb met with staff to discuss South Farnham School’s national work with Maths Mastery and support for other local schools.

Teacher training was also discussed, including School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT), and the school’s own SCITT programme, judged outstanding by Ofsted and currently providing training for over 100 graduates.

Mr Gibb said: “I was impressed by the pupils’ immaculate behaviour and high academic achievement,” he said.

“The school’s focus on ensuring all children read every day, at school and at home, is why the school performs so well in the KS2 SATs in reading. 100 per cent of pupils at South Farnham achieved at least the expected standard in reading, writing and maths."

Headteacher Claire Donnachie commented: “This was a wonderful opportunity for the Minister to see for himself the tremendous work the school does to improve educational standards for all our children and to celebrate our outstanding results and achievements.”