A SOUTHEND pre-school is the first to be awarded a Gold Southend Early Language and Communication Award.

Little Acorns, in Barnard Road, Leigh, celebrated the award with the staff, children and parents and carers.

Anna Woodcock, manager at Little Acorns, said: “We really enjoyed working towards this award.

During this process it was great to see the long-term progress of individual children.”

Isobel Wratislaw, specialist speech and language therapist for Southend Council, said: “Some children can have difficulties but if they have access to early years’ provision which effectively identify language learning needs we can implement strategies to meet those needs.”

The aim of the Southend Early Language and Communication Award is to recognise excellence in supporting and developing young children’s language skills.