EDUCATION chiefs are pledging 'excellence for all' in a three-year plan for North Yorkshire.

The Education Service Plan sets out goals and aims in North Yorkshire for everyone from toddler age to pensioners.

Currently 13,000 staff are supported by 5,200 governors to provide education in the county at an annual cost of almost £300m.

As well as 392 schools, the services provided by the county council include special education, early years, community education, inclusion and welfare, music, outdoor pursuits, management support and strategic planning.

The new education plan provides a framework for life-long learning for people of all abilities and backgrounds.

The county council's executive member for education, Chris Metcalfe, said: "The plan is ambitious and inclusive. We want learning to be a great experience for everyone and we want to open up more chances in life.

"Successful learning helps people to build their future and helps them to handle challenges in life, work and as good citizens."

North Yorkshire enjoys some of the best examination results in the country despite the difficulties caused by its size.

Its rural nature and the large number of small schools create logistical problems for education chiefs and there are pockets of social deprivation as well as a transient population because of the Army and the seasonal tourist trade.

Coun Metcalfe said: "We are committed to providing education which will provide opportunities, independence and security for all." The three year plan will look at how the education service will improve standards by providing the right skills and facilities and setting high standards while also ensuring education is enjoyable.

The county council aims to help young children to progress through the system so they grow in confidence and to encourage life-long learning by opening up facilities for the community.

Coun Metcalfe said: "Schools will have autonomy but there will also be greater emphasis on collaboration and the sharing of good practice across the education service.

"There will be openness and accountability, coherence and equity, partnership and listening, but clear standards and the pursuit of excellence, so we can help everyone in North Yorkshire fulfil their potential."