Building skills through independent learning is something immensely positive that came from Rydal Penrhos during the coronavirus lockdown.

Having to manage time is not an easy proposition away from school, but each Rydal Penrhos pupil thrived with extra responsibility on their shoulders, and they also received a substantial amount of support and guidance from dedicated teaching staff.

This was evident across every department, but perhaps the most eye-catching work came from aspiring artists from all year groups. Experienced staff duo Mark Sherrington and Suzy Morris came up with thought-provoking tasks that captured their imagination and enhanced creativity.

The quality of what has been produced by the pupils in isolation says a great deal about the culture of the school and the ambition to improve whatever the circumstances.

Mr Sherrington explains more:

“During the lockdown period, some of the most successful work we received was based on landscape.

“I tried to make the brief as open as possible and asked the pupils to respond to “the sun” or “clouds” rather than a direct scene.

“This meant the pupils thought more about what the sun did to the landscape rather than what it looked like.

GALLERY: Independent learning work during lockdown

“All the work was remarkable in its maturity and personal response and based on real visual and felt experiences.

“It is very encouraging for next year and demonstrates the pupils’ understanding of the importance of independent and self-directed learning.”

This diverse programme of study during an unprecedented time is a further indication of what an education at Rydal Penrhos involves.

Pupils are given plenty of responsibility to use their own initiative, and they receive expert guidance from a staff team that continues to go above and beyond the call of duty.

These experiences will stand them in extremely good stead upon their return to school in September. And if the lockdown learning phase taught them anything, it is that they can make the most out of even the most disruptive of situations.

Rydal Penrhos is now able to offer socially distanced tours to prospective pupils and their families.

For more information email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com, prep@rydalpenrhos.com or book online at https://rydal.wpengine.com/open-days-visits.