Rydal Penrhos held a special event for departing pupils prior to the coronavirus closure.

Following the government’s decision to shut all school to prevent the spread of the virus, staff quickly arranged an impromptu Leavers’ Service on the Memorial Quad.

This was the final official engagement for Year 13 before their time at the school came to an end.

The contributions of Year 11 were also acknowledged during the occasion, which proved to be an emotional occasion for all involved.

Reverend Nick Sissons got proceedings underway with a welcoming address, before Leah Crimes, head of key stage 5, provided a reading.

The senior school community were in good voice with a series of hymns throughout the service, including the ever-popular Calon Lan and Shine Jesus Shine.

Year 11 duo Josh Peevor and Gloria Johnson gave their thoughts on their time at Rydal Penrhos and how it has shaped them for the better, before head boy Ioan Peake-Jones and head girl Millie Collins taking centre stage for their own speech.

Both have played a significant role in the success of the school in recent years, with both speaking incredibly highly about the education they’ve received, the friendships made and their favourite memories.

They also delivered a rendition of Aerosmith’s classic ‘Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing’ that was another wonderful moment.

Executive Principal John Waszek closed out the service with a thought-provoking address, urging those in attendance to show care and compassion to those struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

There will be a more formal event held at Rydal Penrhos once the coronavirus situation is eventually resolved, and further details will be announced in due course.