Welsh education minister Kirsty Williams AM has thanked independent schools for their concerted efforts of assistance during the coronavirus pandemic.

In a letter to Emma Verrier, Chief Executive Officer of the Welsh Independent Schools Council, the Assembly Member commended the work being done by private education establishments to join forces with the maintained sector in a time of crisis.

Mrs Williams, wrote: “I am very grateful to all independent schools who have stayed open, alongside schools in the maintained sector to ensure that childcare provision is available for vulnerable pupils, and the children of our key workers in Wales.

“This is enabling these workers to carry on with their important jobs during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Thank you for all you are doing to coordinate these new ways of working.”

Rydal Penrhos has been at the forefront of community aid in recent weeks, helping in whatever way they can to make things easier for NHS staff and other keyworker facilities.

Sixth Former Jamie Lavery, teacher Mark Harmsworth and technician James Bonser have now produced more than 1,000 protective masks for NHS staff and critical keyworkers using 3D printers, with a crowdfunding page relating to the project surpassing its £2,500 target after an incredible response.

The school has also opened its boarding accommodation to critical keyworkers, in addition to their community childcare provision.

The Design Technology, Physics and Chemistry departments also donated 500 sets of protective eyeglasses to local care homes across the region.