SEVEN Wirral primary schools were praised for celebrating ethnic diversity during an annual awards ceremony.

Pupils from Bedford Drive, Holy Spirit, Lingham, Riverside, Sacred Heart, St Joseph's Wallasey and West Kirby primary shared thoughtful poems they had written about the experiences of refugees at the Minority Ethnic Achievement Service's School of Sanctuary Awards at Birkenhead Town Hall.

A School of Sanctuary is one recognising different needs and experiences of all families and seeks to celebrate this diversity.

During the ceremony, mayor Geoffrey Watt distributed certificates and congratulated staff and children from each school and Jeff Morgan from City of Sanctuary spoke about the impacts of this work around the UK.

MEAS manager, Anna Turnbull congratulated the schools on their amazing work which really supports children's spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and learning about British values.

She said: "It is very important in this day and age to give all children a broad learning experience.

"Whilst academic achievements are important, it is equally vital that children develop empathy and respect for others."

MEAS is now looking forward to continuing the award for a fourth year in September.

Wirral Council cabinet member for children and families, Cllr Bernie Mooney added: "It is encouraging to see so many of our schools taking part in this scheme, and I was pleased to see their hard work and dedication receive the recognition it deserved.

"Hopefully, more schools will work towards becoming Schools of Sanctuary, reflecting how welcoming Wirral is and should be for those who need somewhere safe."

For more details about the award email: meas@wirral.gov.uk