TWO primary schools in the Vale of Glamorgan are celebrating wins at the Welsh Heritage Schools Initiatives.

The Welsh Heritage Schools Initatives (WHSI) 30th awards ceremony was held at St Fagans National History Museum earlier this month.

Cogan Primary School, in Penarth, won first prize for the ‘foundation phase’ category for their project exploring the work of local herbologist, Royston Smith.

Rhws Primary School, in Barry, won the award for ‘best primary whole-school project’ for their work on the subject: “Who are we as a nation?”

A total of 33 Welsh schools celebrated after receiving an award at the event with top category winners taking home £1,300 worth of prizes each and shields presented by National Museum Wales.

Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Vale Council's cabinet member for education, arts and the Welsh language said: “These awards are a fantastic achievement, and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and thank pupils and staff for all their hard work.

“The work involved is important and helps to enrich children’s understanding of Welsh heritage and connect us all together.”

The Welsh Government's deputy minister for arts and sport, Dawn Bowden, attended on the day to present some prizes to the winners.

She said: “It is amazing to see that 3,000 children across Wales have been involved in this year’s competition.

“I hope that the experience has increased their knowledge of their heritage and will inspire them to find out more. 

“History matters and we should encourage upcoming generations to explore, appreciate and conserve their heritage, as well as delight in the magnificent achievements from the past.”

A list of all winners is available on the WHSI website.