Susan Melbourne from Chaucer Infant and Nursery School and Karen Body from St Thomas RC Primary were among more than 40 staff who received certificates for attaining higher level teaching assistant (HLTA) status.

Assessment for the qualification, awarded by the Training and Development Agency for Schools, is based on work done in the classroom with pupils under the direction of the teacher.

The teaching assistant must demonstrate professional values and practice, knowledge and understanding and ability to deliver teaching and learning activities.

Assessments are based on day-to-day work with individual pupils, small groups and in whole class situations.

Candidates have training needs identified and met before spending three days preparing for their visit from an assessor.

Cllr Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for schools, said: "I'm pleased that Derbyshire has such skilled staff helping children make the most of their abilities and enjoy their school experience.

"The support that HLTAs offer to pupils is vital to their progress and allows teachers to give children extra encouragement and guidance.

"I'd like to congratulate all of the successful candidates - and their schools - for demonstrating what an excellent standard of education they are providing for pupils."