AT Maindee Primary School diversity and mutual respect are at the heart of the curriculum.

A short walk through the bright corridors and classrooms confirms this commitment to promoting the rich cultural mix of the local community.

From colourful displays of life in Africa, to batiks and signs saying thank you in 11 languages, the building has a true cosmopolitan feel.

Head teacher Carol Wadsworth is clearly proud of the school's achievements. For her and her staff the fact the school's pupils speak more than 20 languages and come from many different backgrounds is a clear advantage.

She said: "I'm very proud to be a part of this school. We all learn from each other and that breeds a great tolerance. Visitors consistently comment on the good behaviour of the pupils and the welcoming ethos."

Among the school's other recent plaudits is its Basic Skills Quality Mark. It is also one of the first in the city to be awarded the Education Diversity Achievement Award.

Mrs Wadsworth puts this success down to the enthusiasm, support and dedication of her staff, pupils and parents. She said: "We are very lucky, in that we have wonderful staff and parents behind us. It makes it so much easier."

The school's close links with the local community are also key to its success, according to Mrs Wadsworth.

That relationship is cemented each year when the school becomes the focus for the annual Maindee Festival.

In the weeks running up to the event regular workshops are held at the school for pupils to prepare the flamboyant costumes, dance and music that make the festival a community highlight.

Year six pupils have also developed links with the Eton Road elderly person's lunch club, visiting and hosting lunches for them.

The caring nature of the school's pupils was also recently highlighted by a pupil-driven addition to the playground.

A "friendship stop" was introduced - at the suggestion of pupils - so any youngster who is feeling lonely can go there and others can invite them to play with them.