Community

School strikes gold for PE

Published

11 years ago

April 4, 2014

PRENDERGAST Community Primary School has finished top of the class after their work in P.E. received a glowing report.

The school has been given an ActiveMark Cymru award by Sport Wales and the Association for Physical Education (afPE). ActiveMark Cymru endorses schools committed to developing high quality physical education and school sport, and for promoting the benefits of physical activity. Chair of Sport Wales, Professor Laura McAllister, said: “We believe that schools play an essential role in building a Wales in which children are hooked on sport for life.

“It is important that young people have positive early experiences of sport and physical activity that build a foundation for lifelong involvement in sport. This award recognises those schools that are giving our children an excellent start.”

Headteacher at Prendergast, Debbie Davies, said: “As a whole school we are very proud of this significant achievement that reflects the school’s commitment in providing high quality Physical Education for all of our children.

“Throughout the school, children of all ages participate with enjoyment and understanding and this contributes positively to their health, fitness and wellbeing.”

The school’s Bronze Ambassadors, Carys, Teo, Zac and Jenny, said: “We think that it is great that the school has been recognised for all the sporting activities we do.

“We are constantly trying to work towards higher and higher achievements in PE and sport, because everything we do has a value and deserves to be rewarded.”

Kay Reynolds, Physical Education lead teacher, said this is the second time that Prendergast School has received the ActiveMark award.

“Sport and P.E. are given a high priority at Prendergast C.P., and this latest award shows our continued commitment to them,” she said.

“An excellent physical education contributes not only to children’s health and wellbeing, but it also helps them to achieve well in the rest of their schooling.”

Councillor Ken Rowlands, Cabinet Member for Education, congratulated Prendergast on achieving the award and said: “This is a demonstration of the school’s dedication towards providing excellent sport and P.E. for their pupils, and in turn helping them to perform to their best ability in other areas of their education.”

Sue Wilkinson, Strategic Lead for the Association for Physical Education commented; “It is good to see that schools which make high quality provision for physical education also report higher achievement across the school, in other subjects, but also in behaviour, attendance and retention. The ActiveMark award recognises this vital contribution to school life and children’s education. Physical education in schools is a great investment!”

If your school wants to apply, please visit www.sportwales.org.uk.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

15 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

24 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

1 day ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.