AN INVERCLYDE school received a prestigious award which recognises its pupils are good citizens.

Inverkip Primary has achieved the ‘Rights Respecting Schools Level 2 Award’ — the highest accolade granted in the UK by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (Unicef).

It is granted to schools that show commitment to promoting and realising children’s rights and encouraging adults, children and young people to respect the rights of others in school.

Presenting the certificate, Gerry McMurtrie, senior professional advisor in Scotland for the award, said it demonstrated the whole school has embraced a culture based on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

He said: “Inverkip is a very inclusive school where children report feeling valued and safe, irrespective of their background.

“Pupils have many genuine opportunities to have their views heard and to influence key aspects of school life, creating a positive learning environment.

“The pupils had an excellent grasp of children’s rights and social justice, and so did school staff, parents, carers and the wider school community, who were all involved during the assessment.” Mr McMurtrie added: “Inverclyde has a strong history of success with the Rights Respecting School Award. Everyone at Inverkip Primary should be very proud of their achievement.” Head teacher, Diane Blyth said : “We are delighted to have achieved the award. The Rights Respecting School steering group led by Mrs Rhona Findlay worked so hard. It’s a great achievement.”