Dedicated child care workers from across Dorset were praised for their commitment at an annual award ceremony.

The Early Years and Childcare Awards ceremony was organised by Dorset County Council and celebrated the nurseries, pre-schools and childminders that have received the highest Ofstead grade of ‘outstanding’ over the last year.

Director for children’s services at Dorset County Council, Sara Tough said: “These early years of a child’s life are arguably the most important in setting the foundations for future development, so I’m delighted that a number of early years, childcare settings and childminders in Dorset are rated as outstanding by Ofsted. Parents can be confident that their little ones are in good hands and are being given the best start in life.”

Awards were also handed to those who have shown a commitment to improving their knowledge and skills – working with children by achieving Early Years Teacher Status and Early Years Foundation degrees.

Tina Ironside, partnership and workforce manager for Dorset County Council, said: “Research proves that the quality of childcare is directly linked to the qualification of staff working with children, so we are very lucky in Dorset to have so many dedicated early years professionals willing to study for many years to reach graduate level.

“The impact is evidenced by how many good and outstanding settings Dorset has, and how well prepared children are for starting school.”

Awards were also presented to those committed to improving their knowledge and skills working with children by achieving Early Years Teacher Status and Early Years Foundation Degree.