A Hartlepool primary school shortlisted among the world's best has won celebrity backing in its bid to bring home a prestigious international award.

Ward Jackson C of E Primary School is one of just two UK schools – and only 10 worldwide – shortlisted for the T4 Education World Best School Prize in the Overcoming Adversity category.

The winners in the competition’s five different categories will be announced by a specialist panel later this year, but each shortlisted school is taking part in a public vote to decide the winner of the Community Choice Award.

Several stars of TV and radio have sent messages of support for Ward Jackson’s bid, including Good Morning Britain hosts Ed Balls and Susanna Reid.

Celebrities backing Ward Jackson CofE Primary include Pat Sharp, Susanna Reid and Basil Brush.

placeholder image — Celebrities backing Ward Jackson CofE Primary include Pat Sharp, Susanna Reid and Basil Brush.

Ed Balls said: “Massive congratulations, what an achievement.”

Susanna added: “It’s so good you’re in the top ten in the world’s best schools. Well I think you should go all the way.”

Similar messages, shared by the school on social media, have come from DJ Pat Sharp and Basil Brush.

Charitable initiative INEOS is also celebrating Ward Jackson’s achievement after it provided £20,000 a year to the school.

The Ward Jackson Experience has helped pupils take part in a host of activities including surfing lessons.

The Clark Street primary used the Forgotten 40 Project funding to start the Ward Jackson Experience, a list of over 50 activities every child should experience before they go to secondary school.

They ranged from free and achievable pleasures, such as learning to ride a bike or watching the sun, to funding visits to the Lake District, dining in a restaurant and learning to ice skate.

The Ward Jackson Experience was recognised by T4 Education as part of the school’s commitment to removing financial barriers.

David Akers, headteacher at the school when it was awarded the funding said it helped to change pupils’ lives.

“INEOS’ money really helped us to open doors to exploration,” said David.

Current head teacher Amy Sparkes said The Ward Jackson Experience had helped the children to become more confident and curious about the world around them – and created lasting memories that would help to shape their view of the future.

She said: “We are so proud to be recognised for the work we do. We don’t want adversity to limit them.

“Children should not miss out on opportunities because of their circumstances.”

People can vote for Ward Jackson at worldsbestschool.org