A PRE-SCHOOL has been awarded a significant accreditation to show they are skilled at helping youngsters with autism.

Bluebells Pre-School based at Orpen Hall in Nayland Road, West Bergholt, has been given Essex County Council's Good Beginnings silver award.

In order to gain the status, staff and the pupils have to take part in observations with experts from County Hall to showcase their training.

Manager Jackie Leach said getting the award was a collective achievement and now hoped to push for the gold standard.

She said: "It is brilliant news for us and it has been a real team effort from everyone here.

"I think the main message we have taken is how unique each and every child is.

"We are all really proud and there will not be many pre-schools around who have this award."