Pupils of a newly formed school federation enjoyed a leavers’ party at a top hotel as they prepare to move up to secondary school.

The Hafod Federation, Gwernymynydd CP School and Ysgol y Waun, Gwernaffield, has enjoyed a busy first six months according to head teacher Louise Ankers.

She said: “There have been so many positive experiences for pupils and parents from both schools have been very supportive. I look forward to building on this successful start.

“The Federation’s first Year 6 leavers have had an action packed transition from their individual primary schools within the federation as they prepare to move on to secondary school.

“The 27 leavers all took part in a team-building day at Colomendy where pupils worked together, solving problems, developing confidence as they pushed themselves to their limits.”

“Then a group of parents worked with pupils to organise a leavers’ party which was held at the Plas Hafod Hotel.

“All pupils were very well behaved and it was hard to tell they were from two different schools - they all get along so well. These plans have really helped them prepare for secondary school.”

Mum, Sian Parry, of Gwernymynydd, who organised the party says she was delighted the event was so successful and hopes it will become an annual event.

She said: “We had amazing support. The Plas Hafod Hotel donated the venue for free and gave us a massively reduced price for the buffet. The hotel team was fantastic and allowed children to choose the food, decorations and their own song list for the disco.

“The PTA’s of both schools paid for the disco and the DJ was fabulous and interacted well with a room full of 11-year-olds. The party was well supported by staff, governors and parents.”

She added: “Parents form both schools offered lots of help and support on the night to chaperone the event. I hope it becomes an annual event.

“It was lovely to see the pupils of both schools mixing and getting to know each other before going to Mold Alun High School.”