A CONNAH'S Quay primary school has been praised after becoming the only one in North Wales to receive a special accreditation - for the second time.

Bryn Deva School received the Marjorie Boxall quality mark from the national charity Nurtureuk.

The accolade is awarded to schools which demonstrate exemplary practise in supporting a range of pupil needs in their school that help children overcome barriers to making the most of school and learning.

Helen Evans, the school's nurture group manager, said: "It is an inclusive group that supports individuals in spite of any difficulties they may face so they can be the best they can be.

"A big thanks go to the members of staff that support the pupils - Jennie Redfern and Samantha Rush."

An event held at the school to mark the re-accreditation under the scheme was held on Friday and saw guests such as Jack Sargeant AM, Mark Tami MP and Flintshire Council leader Cllr Ian Roberts in attendance.

The school was also visited by Claire Wilson, Nurtureuk consultant trainer, on the day.

She told the Leader: "We're delighted for Bryn Deva - it is the only group in North Wales to have been accredited, and for a second time too.

"It is testament to the hard work that has been put in."

Cllr Ian Roberts, also Flintshire Council's cabinet member for education and interim cabinet member for finance, said: "I think it's great news that the school has a reputation for its group and its wellbeing.

"I'm very pleased to visit them and proud of their achievement - and they should be as well."

Mark Tami MP said: "It's an excellent project and I am very pleased that Bryn Deva has received this award.

"It's even more special because it's the only one in North Wales."

Jack Sargeant AM presented a plaque marking the occasion to pupils Josh Bailey and Megan-Rose Roberts, who are both members of the school's nurture group.

Mr Sargeant said: "I am delighted that my former primary school, Ysgol Bryn Deva, has received Nurtureuk's Marjorie Boxall quality mark award.

"On behalf of the residents of Alyn and Deeside I wish to offer many congratulations to the teachers and pupils who are a credit to our community."

Mrs Rush told the Leader that working with the nurture group was "a privilege".

Miss Redfern added: "It's great to see the children develop and it proves that all the hard work put in pays off."

Gillian Smith, whose six-year-old son Sean is a member of the group, said she was delighted at the award.

She said: "I have noticed a big change in Sean since he joined the group.

"When he first joined he wouldn't talk - but his confidence has just blossomed since.

"The teachers are amazing and their door is always open if you have any questions or concerns."

Mum Paula Colledge, whose six-year-old son Joseph Hitchin also goes to the group, added: "My son has been through a lot. I was poorly with cancer and his granddad passed away so this has really helped him to deal with his emotions.

"I think every school should have one of these groups."

To find out more about Nurtureuk, visit www.nurtureuk.org