A Newton Aycliffe pre-school is “extremely proud” after receiving an ‘outstanding’ rank by OFSTED following a recent inspection.

The pre-school, located adjacent to St Oswald’s Park, was awarded the highest praise after their inspection in January 2023.

This is the first time St Oswald’s, which is operated by Great Aycliffe Town Council,  has received this grading since it opened, making this a huge achievement for the staff.

Read more: New cycle route to be built along Stockton and Darlington railway

Julie Gale, pre-school manager, said: “I could not be happier that we as a team have received such a great achievement but it is achievement that we could not of received without the support of our families and children whom attend St Oswald’s pre-school.

“We are extremely proud of the result we have been awarded and look forward in continuing to provide an enriched and nurturing learning environment for all of our children and to continue in working in partnership with our wonderful families.”

The school was assessed on all aspects including quality of education and personal development, receiving ‘outstanding’ status across the board.

Dan Austin, Town Clerk for the Town Council admitted he “could not be prouder” of the staff.

He said: “I know they have all worked tirelessly to make St Oswald’s such a brilliant pre-school, implementing all sorts of improvements to the facilities, learning activities and care of the children, and working to keep the pre-school open all through the pandemic when many other businesses and organisations were closed.

“It was particularly touching reading some of the comments from the parents and realising how much they value the pre-school and the care their children receive.”

Get more from The Northern Echo with a Premium Plus digital subscription from only £1.50 per week

The Chairman of the Council’s Pre-School Sub Committee, Councillor Bob Fleming added: “On behalf of the councillors of Great Aycliffe Town Council I would like to thank Julie and the team for their hard work in making St Oswald’s one of the best pre-schools in the county.

“Gaining an outstanding rating from Ofsted is no mean feat and I am very proud that the Town Council can offer such a fantastic facility to the parents and children of the Parish”.