A WOLLASTON primary school has received £15,000 from the Government for its work in promoting character traits in its pupils.

St James’s CofE Primary School, in Kingsway, was one of 27 schools to be recognised by Education Secretary Nicky Morgan at the Character Awards.

Mrs Morgan said the initiative ensures pupils develop resilience and grit, helps them to stay on the right track once they leave school, improves their employment chances and increases their participation in society.

She said: “Teaching character not only benefits children at school – it also plays a vital role in ensuring young people leave school prepared for life in modern Britain.

“Investing in the character of young people will not only help them succeed academically but also improve their job prospects and help them bounce back from setbacks.

“Teachers across the country are doing excellent work to promote character. Today’s award winners are leading the way, and I hope other schools can learn from their successful approaches.”

St James’s was recognised for its work in promoting values of respect, honesty, kindness, responsibility, perseverance and friendship among its pupils.

Sally Sixsmith, headteacher, said: “I am delighted the school was selected for a Character Award as the awards recognises developing character traits, which are really important to us.

“We were thrilled when we heard we had been picked and the children are very proud of the values and traits they have.”

The school will now go through to the national final with eight other regions where the winner will be announced at a ceremony in London later this month.

Dudley Councillor Tim Crumpton, cabinet member for children’s service, said: “It’s fantastic that St James C of E Primary has managed to get through to the national finals for the development and improvement of character traits in its pupils.

“Congratulations to the staff and children. I look forward to hearing how they get on at the ceremony.”

The school designates pupil role models, such as learning ambassadors and eco warriors to promote character traits such as independence and resilience in the school and through the wider community.

Maggie Alphonsi, Character Award judge and England Women’s Rugby player, said: “My experience in rugby tells me that being resilient and ambitious is really important to success.

“The Character Awards are an exciting opportunity to recognise character as vital in helping young people step up to the challenges that they face, whether it be on the rugby pitch, at school or in work.”

Mrs Sixsmith said the school will put the money towards new technology equipment to further enhance her pupils’ character traits.