PRE-SCHOOL staff are celebrating the findings of their recent Ofsted inspection.

It was the first Bishopton pre-school inspection since joining Darlington's Early Years and Childcare Partnership, less than a year ago.

In all curriculum areas of the foundation stage, the provision was rated as good or better, with especially favourable reports in areas of personal, social and emotional development, and communication, language and literacy.

The report said: "The quality of teaching is good overall, with some definite strengths, making an effective contribution to children's learning.

"The partnership with parents is close, and parents feel the pre-school is an asset to the local community."

Gill Wray, headteacher at Bishopton/Redmarshall CE Primary School, said: "This is an excellent report. We are very much a family school, and I am delighted that we are able to offer such a wonderful start to the youngest members of our community.

"Through our partnership with the Bishopton pre-school, we are now able to offer opportunities for children from the age of two-and-a-half.

"The demand for places at the pre-school has increased significantly, and opening for afternoon sessions has helped to meet the needs of local families.

"In many areas of the country, voluntary pre-schools have been under the threat of closure. By continuing to listen to our families, and striving to meet their needs, I hope that we will continue to build on the successes highlighted by the Ofsted report."

The report also showed that children demonstrate a growing respect for books and a developing love of stories, and that there was good provision for youngsters with special needs.