A Pembrokeshire secondary school has won a prestigious award for its outstanding commitment to children's rights.

Milford Haven School has become the first secondary school in the county and the seventh in Wales to receive the UNICEF Gold Rights Respecting School (RRS) Award.

This accolade recognises the school's dedication to placing children's rights at the centre of its ethos, policies, and practices.

The UNICEF Gold Rights Respecting School Award is the highest achievement given to UK schools for embedding children's rights into every aspect of school life.

Schools that achieve this status have shown that children and young people feel safe, respected, and have a strong sense of belonging.

Ms Morris, Milford Haven School's headteacher, said: "This is a momentous occasion for our school and our community.

"Achieving the Gold Rights Respecting School Award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, pupils, and community.

"It reflects our commitment to creating a learning environment where every pupil feels valued, heard, and empowered."

The Rights Respecting Schools Award honours schools that have fully integrated the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) into their ethos.

The assessment process evaluates how well schools promote respect for rights, equality, and the active participation of pupils in shaping their educational experience.

Milford Haven School demonstrated excellence in all areas.

Representatives from UNICEF praised the school for its efforts.

They highlighted the pupil-led initiatives, collaborative projects, and ongoing commitment to promoting global citizenship and human rights education.

Miss Reynolds, assistant headteacher at Milford Haven School, said: "This award is a reflection of the whole school community’s dedication to promoting children’s rights and creating a respectful, inclusive environment.

"The recognition highlights the ongoing commitment to pupil wellbeing and development as part of the school’s ethos."

Milford Haven School pupils have been instrumental in driving the Rights Respecting agenda.

The school's pupil voice groups have ensured that every pupil understands their rights and the importance of respect and equality.

The groups have led campaigns, organised events, and contributed to decisions that affect school life, helping to foster a stronger sense of ownership and responsibility within the pupil voice.

One pupil said: "Being a part of a Rights Respecting School means that we have the opportunity to speak our minds.

"We know as young people that our voices are going to be heard and our ideas listened to.

"That gives us the confidence to action change and make a difference."

The whole school community is celebrating this achievement.

Steven Richards-Downes, director of education, said: "Milford Haven School has consistently improved children’s rights at the school and this has culminated in the achievement of the Gold Rights Respecting Schools award.

"The school is putting those rights at the centre of everything that they are doing which brings significant benefits for its learners."