The sun is shining, COVID-19 restrictions are lifting and extra-curricular activities are once again thriving across Rydal Penrhos School.
It’s been refreshing to see things get back to some semblance of normality throughout the academic year so far after COVID-19 restrictions meant some significant changes to events, activities and the way each Rydal Penrhos pupil and staff member approached their day-to-day lives. This immense period of disruption was something that increased resilience in everyone throughout education and is a testament to the ability to make adjustments quickly and ensure progress remained unaltered.
Although every precaution is still being taken, getting back to doing what they love has had a marked impact on our pupils. Something that we hope continues long into the future given how vital structure and varied experiences are regarding development.
Whether children are just starting out their journeys through education or getting ready for the next stage as Sixth Formers, Rydal Penrhos endeavours to treat every pupil as an individual with a broad academic curriculum and extra-curricular options that cater to every possible passion and interest they may have.
There is a growing sense of excitement as we head into spring and the improved weather that is sure to follow. This has always been a time of year that excites pupils and staff alike and after two years of limited activities, we have arranged a bumper calendar for the school and wider community to enjoy.
The return of music events will begin tonight (Tuesday 22 March) with a Four Choirs Concert held at Rydal Penrhos, with many more scheduled between now and when we break up for a well-deserved summer holiday. This is a part of school life that has been sorely missed, with pupils getting the chance to showcase their musical skills, building confidence and poise for good measure.
Not only this, but the school’s Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme is back in full swing, with plenty of expeditions, training days and assessments scheduled in the coming months as pupils look to attain meaningful qualifications that look great for prospective employers or on university applications.
Rydal Penrhos has a rich and proud history of sporting success. Our aspiring athletes have got a substantial amount out of competitive fixtures returning, with the school recently welcoming schools and teams from across North Wales and the North West for our annual U16 Rugby 7s competition, which was an unbelievable occasion full of life and high quality.
Our young performing artists have been able to flourish on stage and at competitions across the region such as the Chester Drama Festival in recent weeks. And there will be another unique element returning in the coming weeks as our RYA Accredited Sailing and Water-Sports Centre gets its summer season underway.
Sailing has been a part of Rydal Penrhos’ illustrious history for more than 60 years and even forms part of the Prep curriculum. Couple this with residentials and educational trips to boost things academically, it’s not hard to see why things are looking up after so much uncertainty.
We are enormously indebted to the entire school community for the way they responded to adversity throughout COVID-19. Our teaching staff put together a comprehensive online provision during the lockdowns that received exceptional support from parents, with pupils also doing their part by remaining committed to their studies in ever-changing circumstances.
There could be more challenges to come regarding the virus. But for now, our pupils are challenging themselves each and every day, reaching and often far exceeding their goals across a wide range of areas that will stand them in good stead throughout their time with us and long after they become part of our ever-growing alumni community.
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Anyone wishing to enquire about Rydal Penrhos School can do so by calling 01492 530155, emailing admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or registering your interest online.
