A PENARTH primary school has won a national award in recognition its efforts to allow children to have their say in how the school is run.

Victoria Primary School was recently presented with the National Children and Young People’s Participation Standards Kite Mark for Wales.

A two-day inspection showed the many ways in which all children are given the opportunity to have their say and found that “pupils at Victoria Primary School have a voice”.

As a result school children felt that their opinions were important.

Pupils are involved in making decisions, planning and reviewing decisions and actions that might affect them. The school was inspected under the seven standards of pupil participation: ‘Information’, ‘It’s your choice’, ‘No discrimination’, ‘Respect’, ‘You get something out of it’, ‘Feedback’ and ‘Improving how we work’.

During the inspection the team of young people used a variety of methods to help determine whether the school had met the National Participation Standards for Wales. These included having a tour of the school, talking to pupils and observing lessons. The inspectors also attended a school council meeting.

The inspectors reported that the aim of Victoria Primary School was to nurture independent and confident learners, equipping children with the skills necessary for a lifetime of learning. The inspection found that the school provided opportunities for individuals to achieve their potential through the delivery of relevant, flexible and innovative learning programmes which celebrate success. The school also creates a welcoming, happy, safe and environmentally friendly community.

The young inspectors thought that the children’s opinions were included in the running of Victoria Primary School.

Mrs Taylor, head teacher at the school, said:

“I am delighted that our school has met the National Children and Young People’s Participation Standards for Wales. It recognises the wonderful collaboration of the whole school community and celebrates that every individual’s voice is heard and valued particularly that of the children. As always I am very proud of our outstanding school community. Well done.”