TWO Keighley headteachers met Prime Minister David Cameron during a Downing Street reception.

Oakbank’s David Maxwell and Martin Hings, of Holy Family, were among teaching staff from across the country honoured at the gathering.

The duo was invited by Keighley MP Kris Hopkins, who gave them a tour of Parliament before taking them to the event.

“Both headteachers have proven themselves as true leaders in education,” said Mr Hopkins.

“The strong reputations for achievement their schools now enjoy are a direct result of their efforts and those of their staff. They are a real credit to the area.”

Mr Maxwell said it was a pleasure to represent Oakbank.

“It gave me the opportunity to explain to the Prime Minster how awesome the staff and students are at our school,” he added.

Mr Hings said he was delighted the Prime Minister recognised the hard work of pupils and teachers.

He added: “It was amazing to represent Holy Family and the community of Keighley at the heart of Government.”

Mr Cameron said: “Delivering the best schools and skills for our young people, so they can fulfil their potential and get on in life, is a central part of our long-term economic plan.

“With such dedicated and inspiring teachers in our schools, I know we can ensure our children get the best chance to succeed. It was an honour to celebrate their commitment at this reception.”

It has been revealed that for the first time, Keighley district schools will be directly handed Government funds to make repairs.

However they will face action if they fail to spend the money wisely.

Ministers have announced annual maintenance grants for every headteacher, instead of all the funds being channelled through local councils to allocate.

The move follows a survey of all 27,000 schools in England, which allows the Department for Education (DfE) to identify those in the worst physical state.

The biggest amount in the Keighley area – £32,491 – will be awarded to Oakbank, where work on a £16 million new school is due to start later this year.

Primary schools will receive much lower sums, with the smallest amount – £4,518 – going to tiny Oldfield Primary School.