Data published by the Department for Education for 2010 shows that overall, 89 per cent of all pupils achieved the target level two in mathematics and science at key stage one - exams which children take aged seven.
In speaking and listening, 87 per cent of pupils reached level two, 85 per cent did so in reading, and 81 per cent in writing. But a greater proportion of girls than boys reached level two in all subject areas.
Compared to 84 per cent of boys, 90 per cent of girls reached level two in speaking and listening. In reading, 81 per cent of boys reached the target compared to 89 per cent of girls and 87 per cent of girls reached level two in writing compared to just 76 per cent of boys. Girls were also more successful in maths and science.
Schools minister Nick Gibb said: "In spite of the hard work of teachers and pupils, today’s results show that there are still too many seven-year-olds not reaching the expected level in these important subjects.
"We need to make sure that the government gives schools the support they need to get the basics right."
Gibb added that the results showed an unacceptable "attainment gap between local authorities, where we know there are a high proportion of children on free school meals, and richer areas".
"Tackling educational inequality is our top priority, and our pupil premium will provide support for the poorest pupils in our schools," he said.