TWO Ribble Valley pre-schools have been graded as ‘outstanding’ by the education watchdog Ofsted.

Beacon Reach in Ribchester was given top marks after impressing inspectors in June.

Ward Green Lane pre-school staff said they were thrilled at beating their 2011 ‘good’ Ofsted rating and put it down to the children’s hard work.

Principal Paul Carolam said: “We are absolutely delighted with the judgement.

“It acknowledges the progress and achievements of all the young people that are placed with us.”

Inspector Jonathan Woodyatt, who visited Beacon Reach, said: “Pupils make outstanding progress and, as a result, achieve exceptionally well from their different starting points.

“Reading, writing, communication and mathematics are taught exceptionally well so that pupils in all classes, including those that are most able, are very well prepared for the next stages of learning.“ Fellow pre-school Chums at St Leonard's CE Primary School, in Langho, which was set up in 2013, was also rated as outstanding by inspectors.

Inspector Linda Shore, who visited Chums said: “Staff are skilled at teaching through play and work in close partnership with key people at the school to complement children's learning.

“As a result, the educational programme is exceptionally well planned by skilled and knowledgeable staff.”

Bowland Montessori Pre-School based at St James CE Primary School, in Greenacre Street, Clitheroe, retained its ‘good’ Ofsted rating received in 2008 because of its “strong emphasis on outdoor learning”.