23/1/2020

The federated primary schools of Coryton Primary School in Whitchurch and Tongwynlais Primary School, have launched uniform swop shop's to help families save on uniform costs whilst reducing the impact on the environment.

Coryton Primary School

Housed in new sheds located at the schools, the ‘sharing sheds' allow parents to recycle uniform, clothes and other items such as wellies and football boots which they no longer need, by swopping them for other items.

The‘sharing sheds'also support Article 27 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) which says thatchildrenand young people should be able to live in a way that helps them reach their full physical, mental, spiritual, moral and social potential. For this to happen, they should have access to adequate food and housing.

Coryton and Tongwynlais Primary Schools, known as The Pear Tree Federation, are part of theUnicef Right's Respecting Schools Award (RRSA) programme whichrecognises schools which put child rights into practice, creating a safe and inspiring places to learn, where children are respected, their talents are nurtured and they are able to thrive.

Tongwynlais Primary School

Headteacher of The Pear Tree Federation, Sally Phillips said: "Improving the wellbeing, support and provision of our pupils and their families remains a key focus, and having reflected deeply on the cost of coming to school, we considered what could be done to help all families especially those where finances are more limited.

"The exciting launch of our ‘sharing sheds' provides our families with opportunities to save money and live more sustainably whilst supporting children's rights."

Cardiff Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Employment and Skills, Cllr Sarah Merry Said; "In addition to uniform, there can be extra costs associated with school which may pose a financial burden on some families and mean that some children can miss out.

"The ‘sharing sheds' is an excellent scheme which addresses these issues, not only providing invaluable provision for those who need it most but also supporting children's rights and demonstrating the commitment from Coryton and Tongwynlais Primary Schools, in helpingCardiff to become one of the UK's first Child Friendly City's. 

"In signing up to the Rights Respecting Schools Award, they are ensuring that they have children's rights embedded in their daily school life and that these are at the heart of the wider school community. It gives children the best chance to lead happy, healthy lives and to be responsible active citizens who will go on to contribute to the rights respecting culture that we aim to accomplish"

The ‘sharing sheds' were officially opened by school Super Ambassadors,a scheme from the Children's Commissioner for Wales that aims to promote children'srightsand theUnited Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).