The work of the City of York Council's Early Years Service has been recognised for the second year running with a national award, presented by Cherie Blair and Baroness Ashton last week (December 10).

The award, for Foundation Stage curriculum and play, was given by Partners in Excellence - an awarding body of the Department for Education and Skills and the Day Care Trust - in recognition of the service's work with early years education settings.

The award celebrates the council's unique 'Shared Foundation For All' which encourages joint working and shared practice between all practitioners who provide early years education and care in York. These include day nurseries, childminders, playgroups and pre-schools, nursery schools and maintained nursery and reception classes.

Rosemary Flanagan, quality and education development co-ordinator for voluntary, independent and private sector, said: "The Shared Foundation in York is at the cutting edge of education and care provision for young children and we are delighted that this work has received national recognition."

Congratulating the winners, Baroness Ashton commented that there was wonderful work going on in York.

Councillor Janet Looker, the council's executive member for education, said: "This award celebrates the achievements of our staff and partners who work tirelessly to develop education for young children in the city, and shows that our ambitions for working with early years are being realised." ENDS