AN infant school that offers places to children as young as two is celebrating an outstanding Ofsted report.

Trimdon Grange Infant and Nursery School launched a new class for two-year-olds last November and now caters for eight toddlers.

The class has been very well received by parents and, following an unannounced inspection earlier this year, Ofsted inspectors have rated it outstanding in all areas.

The inspector praised the highly skilled staff, strong leadership, innovative and stimulating environment and “abundant opportunities for exploration and investigation.”

Headteacher Catherine Worton said: “We are very proud and excited to receive this recognition, especially Hannah Cullen, who helped set up and leads the two-year-old class, and the parents and families of our children, who have been extremely supportive.”

Helen Nixon, operational lead for early years education at Durham County Council, said: “There are a further 2,800 new free play and learn places for eligible two year olds across the local authority from September.

"There is strong evidence that early education in high quality provision makes a real impact on children’s development and so we are delighted at the outstanding judgement at Trimdon Grange Infant and Nursery School."