‘School of Excellence’ for mental well-being named

A PRIMARY school in Rhondda Cynon Taf is the first in the UK to be named as a “School of Excellence” for mental well-being.

After going through a rigorous assessment process by Thrive(R), which trains teachers and other education professionals to support the emotional and social development of all children, Penywaun Primary School, Aberdare, has been named as the first Thrive School of Excellence in the UK for the role it plays in supporting the well-being of its pupils in order to prevent mental health issues.

Councillor Joy Rosser, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Inclusion Services, said: “Congratulations to all of the staff, students and others associated with Penywaun Primary School on gaining this national recognition award.

“We take great pride in all that our pupils achieve, which is why we support the emotional and social development of all of our learners as a critical aspect of their academic journey.”

Craig Prichard, head teacher at Penywaun Primary School, said: “As a school, we decided about five or six years ago that we would prioritise the mental well-being of our children.

“This is an ethos that everyone has bought into and I think it’s apparent when you walk through our doors because there is a sense of calmness and community.

“For me, the results are what I see in school every day – it’s about raising children’s self-esteem and confidence and seeing them learn to manage their own emotions and to help friends to do the same.”

The School of Excellence award is the highest level of achievement in the Ambassador Schools Scheme, which was launched last year as a way of recognising excellence in member schools.