Children's Rights

Children’s Rights at Abercerdin Primary School

Children and young people have 42 rights under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). These rights ensure that all children grow up happy, healthy, and safe.

In 2011, Wales became the first country in the UK to make the UNCRC part of its domestic law, reinforcing the commitment to putting children's rights at the heart of everything we do.

Who is the Children’s Commissioner for Wales?

Rocio Cifuentes has been the Children’s Commissioner for Wales since April 2022. Her role is to advocate for children’s rights, ensuring that the decisions made by public bodies in Wales, including the Welsh Government, support and uphold these rights.

She leads a dedicated team that works to raise awareness, influence policies, and hold decision-makers accountable. To find out more about the work of the Children’s Commissioner for Wales, visit the website below:

Children’s Commissioner for Wales Website

The Right Way! A Children's Rights Approach

A Children’s Rights Approach at Abercerdin Primary School

At Abercerdin Primary School, we are committed to embedding children’s rights into every aspect of school life. Our approach is based on the UNCRC and ensures that every child feels valued, empowered, and included.

The Five Principles of a Children’s Rights Approach:

• Embedding Children’s Rights: At Abercerdin, we ensure that all school policies and practices are underpinned by the UNCRC. We actively teach children about their rights and ensure our entire school community understands and respects them.

• Equality and Non-Discrimination: Every child has the right to reach their full potential. We celebrate diversity, promote inclusivity, and support all pupils in achieving their aspirations. This is central to our school vision and mission.

• Empowering Children: Our pupils play an active role in shaping their learning. We design lessons and activities that encourage independence, critical thinking, and lifelong learning skills.

• Participation: Decision-making at Abercerdin is a shared process. Staff and pupils work together to shape school policies, learning experiences, and initiatives that impact the whole community.

• Accountability: We hold ourselves accountable for how children experience their rights. Our governing body and pupil voice groups ensure that every decision aligns with our commitment to children’s rights.

School Ambassadors & Pupil Voice

At Abercerdin Primary, we empower our pupils to be ambassadors for children’s rights. Through our School Council and other pupil voice groups, children actively contribute to school improvement and decision-making. Their voices shape our policies, ensuring a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Know Your Rights!

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is a list of rights designed to protect and support all children worldwide. These rights ensure that every child has what they need to be safe, healthy, and happy.

The Three Fundamental Principles of Children’s Rights:

Provision – Every child has the right to essential services such as education, healthcare, and a safe environment.

Protection – Every child has the right to be safeguarded from harm, discrimination, and abuse.

Participation – Every child has the right to be heard, to express their views, and to be involved in decisions that affect them.

By embracing these principles, Abercerdin Primary School is committed to fostering a nurturing and rights-respecting environment where every child can thrive.

At Abercerdin, children’s rights are not just something we talk about—they are at the heart of everything we do!