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A primary school in Caerphilly town has raised nearly £10,000 for Children in Need this year.

Pupils, staff, and parents at Ysgol y Castell came together to raise £9,708.73 for the charity through a variety of fundraising activities last month.

Over the course of a week, pupils took part in a Pudsey Run, doing laps around the school. The nursery pupils were joined by their parents, who completed two laps of the school yard.

There was also a photo booth set up for the pupils, staff, and parents to have photos with Pudsey, as well as a school disco, a raffle, and an online duck race with children cheering and supporting in the hall.

Meanwhile, the school’s dance team, along with some members of staff, learned the Strictly Come Dancing 25 Step Challenge to perform in front of the school – perfecting the routine in just three sessions.

Staff member Kayleigh Roberts said: “We are overwhelmed with the kindness and support of our school community to raise this amazing amount.

“Children in Need means so much to us as a school and we have supported every year since 2014. Two years ago we also raised £6,500 for Children in Need, and Pudsey came in February 2024 to give out medals to the children.”

The charity holds a special place in Ms Roberts’ heart. She had a young daughter with Down’s syndrome, who passed away 12 years ago – but her memory lives on in the school’s fundraising efforts each year.

“Darcie was only 18 months old when she passed,” said Ms Roberts. “In her memory, I wanted Children in Need Day to be a successful one in our school each year, and for the children to understand the importance of helping others.”

Ms Roberts continued: “The staff, parents and children of our school have always been the driving force and a massive support in making this day happen. We as a school are so very proud that we have families that have come together to raise nearly £10,000 – that will definitely make a difference for young children and adults who are in need in our community.”