IT'S still in its infancy but Langlee Early Years Centre is already being regarded as amongst the best in the country when it comes to Family and Community Learning.

The centre, which opened in November 2014, offers a range of drop-in facilities and programmes for parents and their children.

Services for youngsters from nine-months old up to eight years as well as their parents include early learning and childcare, midwifery, family support, home school link, financial help, adult learning, health visiting and school nursing.

The pioneering project is now in line to land the Family and Community Learning category at this year's Scottish Education Awards.

Langlee will go up against two other short-listed facilities, King’s Oak Primary School from Inverclyde and Todholm Primary School from Renfrewshire, at the prestigious awards ceremony at DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central in June.

Among the many nominations for Langlee Early Years, one stated: "The EYC is very much part of the continuum of learning for families within Langlee Primary School.

"The centre is open to all on a universal basis throughout the year.

"Where families require additional support targeted and referred work is planned and delivered.”

This year’s education awards attracted a record 400 nominations across its 15 categories.

The Family and Community Learning award recognises early learning, schools and CLD settings where a vibrant and progressive culture of continuous innovation has been developed.

Langlee Early Years Centre was applauded for its efforts in family learning through their activities to improve outcomes for particular disadvantaged children, young people and families, which include their weekly drop-ins and family learning programmes.

To reach this stage, Langlee Early Years Centre has already been assessed by a panel of experts, and endorsed by the Scottish Border Council.

All finalists will now undergo one final round, a visit from awards’ judges, which will determine the winner.

Run by Media Scotland Events, and sponsored by the Daily Record and Education Scotland, the Scottish Education Awards celebrate the hard work and success which takes place in education establishments throughout Scotland.

The achievements of those who dedicate their lives to children and young people in classrooms across the country are recognised.

David Dick, editor in chief of Daily Record and Sunday Mail, said: "Our schools and education system is full of unsung heroes helping shape Scotland's future every day.

"We are delighted to honour such a key part of Scottish society."

Alan Armstrong from Education Scotland added: “Education Scotland is delighted to support the Scottish Education Awards.

"Each year the Awards highlight innovative and effective practices taking place across Scotland’s learning establishments.

"The Awards allow us to recognise and celebrate the successes of our children and young people, together with practitioners and all those who support their education.

"Well done to all finalists. I look forward to meeting them and hearing about their inspirational work at the Awards ceremony in June.”