A BARRY woman with a background in caring has returned to her school - as its first wellbeing and spiritual officer.

Twenty-year-old Ore Egbetola, who lives in Barry, spent her childhood and teenage years as a young carer looking after her late mother Toyosi, who had kidney disease, and her younger sister Ire, who has sickle cell disease.

Ms Egbetola attended Mary Immaculate High School, in Wenvoe, where she was head girl - and she has now returned as wellbeing and spiritual officer, a full-time role which will allow her to offer support and guidance to students and staff.

She was encouraged to apply for the role after being invited in to speak to year 11 students and give advice on how to cope with stress.

Ms Egbetola said: “The school has a very important place in my heart, and I have always kept in contact.

"When they asked me to apply, I didn’t even think about it, I just said yes.”

After doing her GCSEs at Mary Immaculate High School and her A-levels at St David’s College, she spent time working for a sickle cell charity and helping at the New Life Community Church in Tonyrefail, where she runs the Sunday School.

"I’ve always enjoy working with children," added Ms Egbetola.

"I feel that having a person who’s not a teacher available to talk to students and help them when they’re struggling is very important.

“One of my main roles is being that person.

"I’m always visible around the school making sure people know I’m there for them if they need me. I’m able to draw on my own personal experiences to give them the support and encouragement they need.

“The school has been amazing, and they are so supportive towards me, especially when it comes to training to help me improve and enhance my skills.”

She plans to increase charity and community work at the school and help religious students feel more comfortable in expressing their faith.

Deputy headteacher, Annmarie Wilson, was "delighted" to welcome Ms Egbetola back to school.

"Her caring nature, her personal experiences and her faith made her the perfect person for the job," said Ms Wilson.