A SCHOOL in Barry has been praised for its work within the community.

Nicola Clark has praised Oak Field Primary School for going ‘above and beyond’ for its pupils – including her children, with one moving onto high school and one in reception – and the community.

Ms Clark said: “Oak Field Primary School has gone above and beyond – it’s more than just a school.

“They’ve worked hard to give children an amazing school and outdoor space and the children love the school so much – it’s such a happy place to be.

“It’s also a big part of our community – supplying locals with food parcels and supplies, which is a massive support to families in so many ways.

“I’m proud to be part of such an amazing school; so many families are truly grateful.”

Oak Field Primary School was one of the pioneer schools for the Big Bocs Bwyd (BBB) Project – now being rolled out across the Valleys – which involves converted shipping containers being used to teach children about healthy food choices.

The BBB project, which also involves Cadoxton Primary School and Ysgol Gymraeg Gwaun Y Nant, also offers affordable food to low-income families and food parcels for struggling families.

The food is donated from local shops and supermarkets through charities, such as FareShare.

Oak Field School and Cadoxton Primary School are also involved with the Cadfield Van, which has been helped by Mike Mitchell, managing director at United Worldwide Logistics.

Mr Mitchell attended Cadoxton Primary School as a child and is now a governor at Oakfield Primary School.

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Janet Hayward, who is executive headteacher of both schools [Oak Field and Cadoxton], said: “The van goes out on a Saturday between Cadoxton and Oakfield so parents can book a place and time to stock up.

“Mike remembered there was a van down there [Cadoxton] when he was a boy and wanted to recreate this, but recognised that it was too expensive for some, so plugged this gap.

“The van is well stocked and even has treats for kids, such as comics and toys.”

To find out more about Cadfield Van, including routes and times, visit www.facebook.com/cadfield.van

Upon hearing that a parent had contacted Barry & District News to praise Oak Field Primary School Ms Hayward said: “We want hope and joy in our community, so it’s a delight to know people have praised the schools’ work.

“I’m very proud to be headteacher. I’m proud of the kids, parents, and our staff who work so hard.

“The school is at the heart of the community – if the community thrives then so will the school and vice versa.”

She added that many schools in Barry work together with ‘lots of lovely stuff’ going on.