AN education watchdog has praised the work of children’s centres in York.

Inspectors from Ofsted rated the Knavesmire, St Lawrence’s and The Avenues children’s centres as good in their first inspections, and highlighted the centres’ work with vulnerable and hard-to-reach families.

Reports into the children’s centres said they worked with “an increasing number of vulnerable families”, giving early help so that children and their families could blossom.

Coun Janet Looker, cabinet member for education children and young people, said: “York’s children’s centres provide essential support to parents and carers of young children, helping ease the transition into parenthood and beyond.

I’m pleased that the efforts of all those involved have been recognised with the centres’ first Ofsted inspections.”

Paula Richardson, children’s centre strategy manager for the council, said: “This ‘good’ rating is testament to the commitment and enthusiasm of the children’s centre team across the city.

It’s fantastic to know that the work we do with parents, carers and children really is having a significant positive impact on the life chances of the young people.”

To find out more about the nine children’s centres in York go to york.gov.uk