Cwmaber Junior School in Abertridwr has been praised for its environmental work.

The school has received its fifth Platinum Flag Award through the Eco-Schools programme, which is run by environmental charity Keep Wales Tidy and funded by the Welsh Government.

The programme encourages school children to take an interest in their community and learn about environmental issues such as biodiversity, reducing waste, energy consumption, healthy living and litter.

The school’s eco-coordinator, Mrs Sarah Dann, said she was “so proud of the work the Eco Council and the whole school have undertaken” and added: “We are committed towards continuing to explore how we can develop our sustainability.”

Fran Watkin, The Education Officer for Keep Wales Tidy, said: “The Platinum Flag is a very impressive achievement and highlights the enthusiasm and commitment that Cwmaber Junior School has towards sustainable development.

“The dedication of the Eco-Committee over many years has been inspirational. I’d like to congratulate and thank all of the pupils and staff involved for their hard work.”

As part of the award assessment, the school created a ‘feelings chart’ in each class to support pupils’ health and wellbeing during a school year affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Competitions were also held within the school, with pupils designing new stamps and posters to display in the school, as well as an information poster for the community.

Councillor Ross Whiting, who is Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Learning, said the award was a “reflection of the dedication concerning all staff and pupils involved.”