A St Mary Cray primary school is the only one in the entire south east England region to be shortlisted for a prestigious award.

Poverest Primary School, in Tillingbourne Green, is in the running to receive one the Times Educational Supplement (TES) awards after being shortlisted in the ‘early years setting’ category.

The school had to make a short video of why they should be picked and were selected out of numerous entries.

Only eight schools made it onto the shortlist with Poverest the only one from the south east.

The school could go on to win overall school of the year if they’re victorious in their category, one of 16.

The mixed school for four to 11 year olds recently underwent a remarkable transformation after being rated as requires improvement by Ofsted in 2013, one above the lowest rank available.

MORE TOP STORIES With new headteacher Sally Weeks at the helm the school rose to a good ranking by Ofsted, one below the highest available, at its latest inspection last October.

Kelly Hann, one of the early years teachers, said: “When we found out we had been shortlisted it was amazing, completely out of the blue.

“We can’t believe we’re the only one in the whole south east.

"Just to be shortlisted is an immense privilege.”

Miss Hann teaches one of the two early years classes, otherwise known as reception.

She added: “I think we were shortlisted as we have a great partnership with parents, a great team and a creative curriculum.

“Before this we’d never heard of the TES awards so even if we don’t win we’re going to aim higher next year.

“We’re going to build on this.”

The children all made medals and trophies when they were told of the achievement.

Miss Hann added they were going to try and enter more categories next year.

Headteacher Ms Weeks said: "I'm just delighted, it's down to the hard work and commitment of staff."

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on June 19.

For more information visit: www.tesawards.co.uk