A primary school in Harrow has been decorated for its outstanding commitment to children's rights, being awarded with a coveted award from the UN's children's charity.

Unicef has granted Belmont School a Level 2 Rights Respecting Schools Award, the highest accolade that Unicef can bestow in the UK.

Fewer than 1% of Britain's schools reportedly qualify for the award.

In order to win the award, pupils and teachers had to prove over months of testing that they have a harmonious school community where children's rights are learned, taught, practised, respected, protected and promoted.

Belmont head teacher Lindsey Shaw said: “Commitment to children’s rights underpins and informs every aspect of our school culture and ethos.

“Our children are passionate advocates for social justice and equality of opportunity and they promote these values in their learning, their relationships, and in the roles and responsibilities they willingly take on.

“I would like to say a huge thank you and congratulations to our pupils, parents, staff and our wider community.”

The award is all the more important for Belmont, as it is one of the most diverse schools in Harrow – with more than 40 different languages spoken and many children joining from overseas.

The school is part of Harrow Council’s expansion programme for Harrow – improving its learning environment and provision.

Unicef UK Rights Respecting Schools Programme Director Frances Bestley said: “We are very pleased to be awarding Belmont School the Level 2 Unicef UK Rights Respecting Schools Award.

“It is clear that the whole school has embraced a culture based on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Belmont is a very inclusive school where children report feeling valued and safe irrespective of their background.

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

“It was also clear that children had an excellent grasp of children’s rights and social justice, and so did school staff, parents, carers and the school’s governors.”