Early years education includes pupils in Little Dragons Nursery and the main school Reception Class (ages two to five), and St. George’s was selected as the overall winner from a shortlist of four other UK-based schools.

St. George's School was praised for the "many aspects that set it apart" including the holistic approach and "warm and responsive" interactions between children and staff that promote a "sense of security within the setting".

Pictured: The ‘Early Years Award for Excellence and Innovation in Provision’ at St. George's School.

Judges also highlighted St. George’s commitment to recognising talent and achievement in all its guises through the "Stars of the Week" system and "Celebration Assemblies."

The team were also praised for their excellent Educational Needs provision and mutually beneficial community involvement projects such as nursery pupils’ weekly visits to a local care home.

Judges also made special mention of the school’s extra-curricular provision, water safety lessons for all and forest school programme.

Pictured: Reception pupils Juliet and James give the Award the thumbs up.

Jo Wrigley, Head of Early Years, said the team "work extremely hard" to offer something unique to the pupils.

"It’s wonderful for that work to be recognised with this very special award. We regularly expand our knowledge and ensure we’re up to date with the latest in early years teaching techniques, but we never lose sight of the need to nurture and care for our pupils."

"The sense of security they feel here is crucial to helping them to develop confidence, becoming well-rounded individuals who value kindness and are supported and encouraged to achieve their potential," she added.

"By getting early years education right, we find that our pupils develop a life-long love of learning and we know that this is critical to their long-term success and happiness. We feel extremely privileged to be a part of helping them to achieve their goals and setting them on the path to success."