The Vale of Glamorgan schools St David’s CIW Primary School, St Joseph’s R.C. Primary School, St Illtyd Primary School, Ysgol Y Ddraig Primary School and Pendoylan CIW Primary School have each earned the national School of Sanctuary award, which recognises schools that go above and beyond to foster a culture of welcome, understanding and belonging.
Councillor Rhiannon Birch, cabinet member for education, arts and the Welsh language, said: “Schools play a vital role in helping children feel safe, respected and included.
“By becoming Schools of Sanctuary, these schools have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to creating welcoming environments where every pupil can flourish and feel safe.
“We are incredibly proud to support schools that promote kindness, compassion and understanding, helping to build stronger, more inclusive communities for everyone.”
The Schools of Sanctuary programme recognises schools that actively promote understanding and inclusion for children from all backgrounds, including those entering care, from military families, or newly arrived in the UK.
To achieve the award, schools must demonstrate their commitment by helping pupils, staff and the wider community better understand the experiences of people whose lives have been disrupted, while embedding inclusive practices across school life.
The Schools of Sanctuary awards form part of the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s wider commitment to supporting schools to create inclusive, equitable learning environments where every learner feels like they belong.
