News and highlights from schools in Wrexham and Flintshire

If you would like to feature anything from your school, you can share with us direct here or email claire.pierce@newsquest.co.uk

Darland High School, Rossett

In a display of community spirit, students from a Wrexham high school again supported the Chester Marathon.

Students from Darland High School run a water station during the Chester Marathon.

The Wrexham students played a vital role in ensuring thousands of runners stayed hydrated throughout Sunday's race. This marked the school's 10th consecutive year of involvement, making it a beloved tradition for both students and the local community.

More than 30 enthusiastic students and staff, led by Gemma Gardner-Elias, head of the PE department, stationed themselves at the Darland Lane water station, where they handed out water to marathon participants.

Mrs Gardner-Elias said: "It's wonderful to see our students so actively engaged in community service. The Chester Marathon is a major event in our region, and being part of it gives our students a chance to experience the positive impact of helping others."

Students from Darland High School run a water station during the Chester Marathon.

As runners approached the Darland water station, they were greeted by the smiling faces of the student volunteers. With encouraging words and bottles of water, the students not only provided physical support but also boosted the morale of runners, helping them push through one of the toughest sections of the 26.2-mile race.

The experience of community work offers long-term rewards for the students. Engaging in charity work allows young people to develop a sense of responsibility and empathy. It teaches them the importance of giving back, not just to their local community, but also to society at large.

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Participating in the Chester Marathon is an opportunity to build critical life skills. Teamwork, time management, and communication are all vital in coordinating efforts to ensure the water station operates smoothly. Students gain first-hand experience in problem-solving and leadership, as they manage a fast-paced environment with high stakes for the runners.

Involvement in community service also fosters emotional growth. Seeing the tangible impact of their actions can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, it helps students develop a strong work ethic, preparing them for future academic and professional challenges.

Ysgol y Llan, Whitford

Ysgol y Llan new headteacher Tomos Williams, with some of the pupils.

There is a fresh start in several ways at the Flintshire primary school.

At the helm is new headteacher Tomos Williams, with a commitment to fostering a nurturing environment rooted in strong Christian values.

He aims to showcase the school's fantastic facilities and beautiful surroundings, with one of the highlights being its newly built, modern childcare facility, designed to provide wrap-around care for students.

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Mr Williams said: "Our school is not just a place for academic growth; it's a community where respect, kindness, and excellent behaviour are at the forefront.

"We believe in nurturing the whole child, and our ethos strongly reflects that."

Ysgol y Llan welcomes parents and children to visit the school.

Parents are encouraged to visit the school to explore its amenities and witness its vibrant community firsthand.

With exciting plans for the future, Mr Williams is dedicated to ensuring that Ysgol y Llan continues to thrive.

Ysgol Rhiwabon, Wrexham

Last week saw the beginning of a new initiative at the school, Partners for Learning.

This aims to overcome barriers which are detrimental to the wellbeing and academic success of young people, by supporting families to be better equipped in supporting students at home.

Partners for Learning at Ysgol Rhiwabon.

The first session for parents was focused on how to access and use Maths Watch, the school's online platform for maths homework, exam preparation and extended maths work at home, delivered by Emma Beveridge, Curriculum Leader for maths.

Assistant headteacher Paddy Bingham, said: "All in attendance described it as excellent and left feeling more confident in supporting their child to use the platform."

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One parent commented: “Informative, very useful session I will be back for more.”

The next session is planned for Thursday, October 17, from 5pm-6pm, and will be on steps to improving your child’s reading with Accelerated Reader.

Flint High School

Sixth formers from the Flintshire high school attended a university open event to gain a taste of university life and learn about some of the options open to them post sixth form.

Flint High School sixth form students at the Higher Education Exhibition, Edge Hill University.

The students visited the Higher Education Exhibition at Edge Hill University, Liverpool which aims to give students an opportunity to speak to representatives from different higher education institutions, apprenticeship providers and employers from around the UK about the various pathways that are available.

Students also took advantage of the optional information talks covering everything from choosing a university to UCAS, personal statements and student finance.

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Anna Smith, sixth form supervisor, accompanied the students on the visit. She said: "The event was fantastic! It was so helpful for students to be able to ask questions, discuss their plans and receive invaluable advice from so many professionals. This is the first of several visits we have planned for our sixth formers over the coming months which we hope will help them as they navigate their next steps.

Students attend a talk at the event about student finance by a member of the University's staff.

Tours of the campus were led by current university students, giving the sixth formers a chance to talk to them about their experiences of university and student life.

Freya Allen said: "We felt so welcomed by Edge Hill University and I now feel extremely excited for my university journey."

With the upcoming open evening on October 17, several Flint High School sixth formers will be on hand to help prospective students and their families learn more about the exciting courses and experiences the school has to offer, as well as its excellent pastoral care and support.

The event opens at 5.30pm, with a welcome talk by Sam Harbour, head of sixth form, and closes at 7.30pm. Prospectuses will be available and there will be an opportunity to visit departments for A level subjects over both sites, Flint High School and St Richard Gwyn Catholic High School, for which transport will be provided.