Rhondda Cynon Taf schools excel in National History Awards
Twelve schools from across Rhondda Cynon Taf have scooped prizes at the National History Awards, held at the National Waterfront Museum in Swansea on Friday, July 5.
At the Awards ceremony, Maerdy Primary, Darren Park Primary and Aberdare Community School received the prestigious shields for coming top in 3 out of the 4 respective categories (Best Foundation, Primary and Secondary Schools) – and each school was awarded £800 in prize money, which was then extended through a further financial prize given by the John Hopla Memorial Society.
Aberdare Community School was also successful in winning the EUSTORY prize, which will now see pupils attending a history conference for young people in Berlin.
Councillor Joy Rosser, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Inclusion Services, said: “I am absolutely delighted to see so many schools from Rhondda Cynon Taf performing so well at the recent National History Awards in Swansea.
“With twelve of our schools picking up prizes at the Awards ceremony, it meant that Rhondda Cynon Taf collectively won more than any of the other 22 Local Authority areas in Wales, and this is an absolutely fantastic achievement that demonstrates the wealth of talent we have in our future generations in RCT.
“Thanks must go to both the John Hopla Memorial Society for their generous contributions to each of our shield winners and also the invaluable work they do with our schools throughout the year; and also to our hardworking and dedicated teaching staff, who I know put so much effort in to ensuring that all of our children have the best possible educational journey.
“I’d like to extend my congratulations to all of those involved and, on behalf of the Council, say how proud we all are of your achievements.”
The John Hopla Memorial Society is dedicated to the prominent miners’ leader, who played a major role in shaping the history of the Rhondda, and beyond, with his campaigning for better wages and conditions for miners and their families. The Memorial Society works with schools across RCT to promote local historical understanding.
