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A primary school in the Darran Valley has been named the best in Wales for teaching Welsh history.

Fochriw Primary School received the award from the Welsh Heritage School Association, alongside £500 prize money.

Headteacher Sharon Pascoe said the win was “testament to the hard work and dedication of our pupils and staff” – with coal mining a central theme of the school’s teaching.

The school was praised by Cllr Carol Andrews, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s cabinet member for education.

Cllr Andrews said the council was “extremely proud” of the school for winning the award, and “showcasing just how important it is that we preserve our heritage and history”.

She continued: “The staff and pupils at Fochriw Primary School are a testament to this preservation.”