NEARLY 50 schools and colleges across the region have been identified as outstanding by the chief inspector of schools.

The 393 schools on the "best" list were selected from the 4,300 schools and colleges that were inspected by Ofsted during the 2003 to 2004 academic year.

They were chosen for excelling on all fronts - many succeeding against the odds.

In this region, they include six primary schools in County Durham, a primary and a college in Darlington; eight primaries and a high school in North Yorkshire; ten primaries on Teesside and a further 18 schools or colleges on Tyneside and Wearside.

The Ofsted list will be presented to the House of Commons today by Education Secretary Ruth Kelly.

Stephen Copeland, headteacher at Etherley Lane Primary School, in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, said its achievements were a team effort.

"Everyone shares the same ideas and ethos, and that is to do the best we possibly can for every child in the school. We have the highest expectations for all our pupils."

In North Yorkshire, 44-pupil Pickhill Primary was also celebrating. Headteacher Rosemary Hayes said: "Thanks is due to the loyal support of governors, parents and people in the local community.

"Although Pickhill, like many primary schools, is suffering from falling pupil numbers, we believe the reason for our success is due to small classes, good teaching and a wide and varied curriculum."

Carole Lamb, headteacher at Teesville Infant School, near Middlesbrough, said: "I think we are a successful school because we have a very positive ethos for our children, as well as getting good results."

The list of outstanding schools is dominated by primary schools, but does include Darlington's Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College.

Principal David Heaton said: "We are delighted to be named as one of the most successful colleges. It is a great honour to be singled out for such praise by the chief inspector.

"Our success is mainly due to the culture of high expectations that has been established within the college and the dedication and commitment of staff and students."

Sheila Gallagher, headteacher at Ouston Infant School, near Chester-le-Street, said: "We create a caring atmosphere for our pupils and pride ourselves on the level of care we give to those in our charge."

And Lesley Wright, headteacher of St Thomas More Primary School, Belmont, Durham, said: "It is tremendous to receive this recognition and we are naturally delighted.