AN ENGLISH-LANGUAGE Barry primary school has been recognised for its contribution to the promotion and use of the Welsh language.

Colcot Primary School has recently been rewarded with the Siarter Iaith (Language Charter) Bronze Award making it the first English medium school in the town to achieve this prestigious award.

The school had to meet strict criteria through 10 main targets.

The Siater Iaith report stated that ‘the school has made excellent progress in the implementation of all 10 targets of Siarter Iaith which has developed all aspects of school life’.

Driven on by its strong Welsh pupil voice committee, Y Criw Cymraeg, the school ‘showed an enthusiasm and ownership of Welsh in meaningful and purposeful situations in all aspects of school life’.

The assessors were also highly impressed with how the school promoted the Welsh language through a range of exciting learning experiences and vibrant classroom, and corridor displays.

Welsh subject leader, Sian Francis said: “I am so proud of our children.

“They have worked extremely hard to gain this award and I delighted that their effort and talents have been recognised.”

Y Criw Cymraeg member Elise Thompson, 10, said: “We really enjoy using Welsh at school.

“Lessons are fun and we all try to use Welsh wherever we are in the school.”

The school is now looking closely at improving its Welsh dimension further and now has the Silver Award in its sights.

Head teacher Mrs Nia Cule said: “I am so pleased that we have been awarded the Siarter Iaith Bronze Award.

“It reflects the hard work of the children and staff at Colcot. I am very proud of them all.”