The school, which is currently based in Station Road, Llanishen, has 42 primary age children with additional learning needs. Although it mainly teaches through the medium of English, it has been honoured with Siarter Iaith's silver award for its excellence in promoting Welsh in all areas of the school.

A report which followed an appraisal of its use of the language said: "A strong Welsh ethos is evident as soon as you enter the school... all classes have appropriate Welsh displays and all classes have Welsh names," adding, "progress towards the Siarter Iaith Cymraeg Campus targets is displayed proudly in a communal area."

The report added that all pupils and adults used Welsh words and phrases consistently while the school's 'Criw Cymraeg' selects a secret 'phrase of the week' which pupils, classes and members of staff are rewarded for using.

"Everyone at school is considered a Welsh speaker," said the report, "and they are effectively encouraged and supported to use the Welsh they have, wherever and whenever possible."

Headteacher Jamyn Beesley said the 'Criw Cymraeg' has representatives from each class and meets regularly. "It is taking increasing ownership of the Siarter Iaith," he said. "They decide how to integrate Welsh in all areas of the curriculum and everyone enjoys learning all about the history and heritage of Wales and also learning about contemporary Wales.

"Whilst celebrating and taking pride in their progress, the school is eager to continue with its success and develop further, aiming for the gold award next."

Cllr Sarah Merry, Cardiff Council's Cabinet Member responsible for Education, said these were exciting times for the school. "Work has begun to increase the capacity at the school through a £23m investment which will see it relocated and rebuilt across two new sites – in Llanrumney and Fairwater – and renamed Ysgol Cynefin.

"It's inspiring to see that while all the work is going on to prepare for this significant move, the school has also strengthened its Welsh language provision and I'm delighted to see it has achieved Siarter Iaith's silver certificate."

Construction of the two new school sites is due to commence this summer.

·       Siarter Iaith (Language Charter) is a Welsh Government initiative designed to inspire children and young people to use Welsh in all aspects of their lives. To be recognised for one of its awards, a school is encouraged to involve all members of its community – pupils, teachers, parents, governors and the wider community – in promoting the use of Welsh.