NEARLY all early years providers in Essex are rated as good or outstanding by education watchdogs.

Some 97 per cent across the county are in the top two categories given out by inspectors at Ofsted.

Childminders are also performing well with 93 per cent of those rated being given good or outstanding ratings.

Essex County Council is encouraging eligible families to apply for the government's free early education entitlement.

Education boss Ray Gooding (Con) said: "We’re committed to ensuring children in Essex get the best start in life and work closely with early years’ providers across the county to ensure this happens.

“Research has shown if children attend a high quality early years environment, they are better prepared to start school and have a strong foundation for high achievement throughout their education."