NEW figures released by the government show Lancashire County Council’s schools are in the top class, according to inspectors.

Statistics reveal 91 per cent of its schools are rated as good or outstanding by Ofsted, putting them in the top third in the country.

The figures to the end of January show that 24.5 per cent of county council schools were outstanding, and 66.5 per cent good, compared to 21.5 per cent and 67.2 per cent respectively for England.

The figure for ‘requires improvement’ is 7.4 per cent, lower than the nationwide 9.5 per cent. Only 1.6 per cent are ‘inadequate’ compared to 1.8 per cent nationwide.

Cllr Susie Charles, the county’s education boss, said: “It’s great to see that the latest statistics back up what we already know, that the quality of schools in Lancashire are amongst the best in the country.

“To have three per cent more ‘outstanding’ schools than the England average is not easy.

“I’m genuinely proud of our schools here in Lancashire. These figures clearly demonstrate the high quality of headteachers, their staff and governors and the commitment of pupils and families.

Cllr John Fillis, deputy leader of the county Labour group, said: “This news is welcome but we must strive to do better.”