Westminster primary school - which banned designer trainers - is voted one of the best in the UK

A Westminster primary school - that banned designer trainers - has been rated one of the best in the UK, with its pupils said to be already two years ahead in Mathematics.

The niche rule that has been set at Hampden Gurney C Of E Primary School, in Nutford Place, Victoria, has clearly had the desired impact, as it is ranked the ninth best state primary school in the UK for 2022.

Despite the tireless work that goes on behind the scenes, the headteacher Evelyn Chua said it was a “surprise” to see the school so highly ranked by The Times.

She explained that herself, along with her staff, create an atmosphere where students arrive ‘ready to learn’.

It’s not an overnight success for the school, and Mrs Chua, who has been headteacher for more than 20 years claimed it took many years of hard work to get the great ranking they have achieved.

She said: “When I took it on, it was a school where no one would want to come.

“The pupil numbers were just failing and the education was failing.

“So, I hope I have made an impact, it’s one of the loveliest jobs you can have.”

The number of pupils currently at the school is 222, which averages to around 16 pupils per teacher.

The schools also instils an early sense of discipline, as all pupils must wear the same black shoes.

If any pupil arrives wearing designer trainers, parents are asked to come back with the appropriate footwear.

Mrs Chua, when asked about this said: “We don’t allow trainers simply because I don’t want competition in the school.

“Everyone has the same leather shoes without parents having to spend a lot of money and comparing.

“We just want to look like they have come to school ready for learning.”