THE standard of education in Thurrock has been praised by the leader of the council.

Councillor John Kent, also portfolio holder for education, has been visiting schools in the borough and says he is impressed by the youngsters 'enthusiasm to succeed'.

After recent visits to Bonnygate Primary School, in South Ockendon, and Kenningtons Primary, in Aveley, he said: "It is fascinating to see how the passion to provide the best possible education and learning environment shows itself.

“Each school I visit has the same passion, but that manifests itself in different ways, partly because each school is different with different challenges, but partly because each head teacher is different too.

“But there’s no doubt about the enthusiasm to succeed which is clearly visible in every school I visit.”

“I will support our education team and our schools in their non-stop endeavours to improve themselves, whatever the road they choose to take.”

During his school visits, Mr Kent also reminded parents who were sending their children to school for the first time in September 2014 to register before Wednesday, January 15.

Mr Kent said the quickest way was through the Thurrock Council website.

“I know these things can be put to the back of the mind and often get forgotten, especially at this time of year. But forgetting can have quite a negative effect on the children and where they and their parents want to go.

“Although there is never a ‘guarantee’ of getting the place you want, the chances are far higher, usually in the 90-plus per cent range if you register on time. Register late and the places on offer are obviously restricted.”