School’s unsung heroes are celebrated by pupils

PUPILS in Bridgend have celebrated the unsung heroes of their schools - support staff.

Unison in Bridgend ran a poster competition as part of its Stars in Our Schools initiative. Pupils were encouraged to draw pictures of their favourite support staff and give reasons why they were chosen.

Stars in Our Schools is an annual celebration of school support staff, aimed at highlighting the contribution they make to their schools.

Teaching assistants, administration staff, cooks, cleaners, lunchtime supervisors and caretakers were among those who were honoured.

Pupils from St Mary’s and St Patricks in Maesteg and Pil Primary, Pyle were among the winners chosen by a panel of judges from Unison and Bridgend County Borough Council.

Winners at St Mary’s and St Patrick’s RC Primary were Scarlet Walsh, Amira Barry, Tianna Little, Bronwen Davis, Jonah Kelly Fisher and Iestyn Jarrett. Chloe Thomas and Evie Orchard were the winners from Pil Primary.

The overall support staff star awards went to Miss Hearne at Pil Primary and Mrs Davies at St Mary’s and St Patricks. Support staff members at each school were also presented with Unison goodie bags and a cake.

Lynne Hackett, Unison regional organiser said: “Unison’s Stars in our Schools day highlights the wonderful work of all school support staff. The enthusiasm the children showed painting their favourite member of staff illustrates the warmth and esteem support staff are held in.”

Awards ceremonies were held at both schools, with guests including Huw Irranca Davies AM, Bridgend Council leader Huw David and Maesteg Town Mayor Cllr Lynne Beedle.

Each of the winners received an art set and outdoor play equipment for their schools.