Six early years providers have achieved Steps to Quality certificates for their excellent skills in childcare and early education.

York College Day Nursery, Little Acorns New Earswick Day Nursery, Heathers Nursery, Ducklings Nursery and childminders Michelle Davies and Lynda Swan will receive their certificates at the Park Inn, York, on 9 March from City of York Council Executive member for Children's Services, Cllr Carol Runciman.

Steps to Quality is the York quality improvement framework which is used by Early Years education and childcare providers such as day nurseries, childminders, Foundation Stage in schools, playgroups and out of school clubs. The scheme aims to boost quality in childcare and early education.

The evening will also celebrate the work of all the groups taking part in Steps, particularly those which have achieved awards.

Parents can find information on which groups have the awards by contacting the York Children's Information Service on (01904) 554628 or email cis@york.gov.uk

Professor Pat Broadhead, who was chair of the Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership in York when the Steps scheme was first developed, will talk about Playful Learning, while Lesley Calvert, manager of Funfishers Out of School Club, will comment about the club's experience of taking part in the scheme.