A SCHOOL in Penarth has become the first 'School of Sanctuary' in the Vale of Glamorgan.

The Schools of Sanctuary network is a group of more than 300 primary and secondary schools committed to supporting the thousands of young people seeking sanctuary in the UK.

St Cyres has been recognised as a School of Sanctuary after it endeavoured to follow the Equalities Act 2010 and by welcoming asylum seekers and refugees to the school.

Cllr Burnett, cabinet member for regeneration and education, said: "I’m proud that St Cyres has become the first Vale school to be awarded School of Sanctuary status.

"That is testament to the warm environment of tolerance and acceptance which has always been a fundamental part of the school’s culture.

"These values are also central to the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s ethos and I hope more of our schools will follow their lead and join this network in the near future.”

Vale of Glamorgan Council deputy leader Lis Burnett and minister for social justice Jane Hutt visited the school to give recognition of its status.

Ms Hutt said: "Our vision for Wales to become a Nation of Sanctuary does not solely belong to the Welsh Government.

"We all have a part to play in welcoming those who seek sanctuary here, St Cyres have demonstrated this by becoming the first school in the Vale of Glamorgan to achieve School of Sanctuary status.

"Congratulations, to all pupils and school staff involved, your application was applauded by the City of Sanctuary movement for the naturally welcoming and warm approach which is genuinely inclusive in both spirit and heart, this embodies what we see as the Nation of Sanctuary approach in Wales.

"I encourage all schools to consider applying to be part of this movement."

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