Rydal Penrhos has set out its Promise; six core tenets that define the minimum standards that children, parents, carers, and families can rely on us to deliver, year-after-year. In this series of articles, we unpack each part of The Rydal Penrhos Promise, and explain what it means for the young people in our care.
3. A Broad and Diverse Curriculum for Pupils Aged Two to Eighteen
At Rydal Penrhos School, we recognise that no two pupils are the same. This fundamental truth lies at the heart of our educational philosophy. Respecting that each pupil brings their own unique interests, talents, and voice to school life, we have crafted a curriculum that is as diverse and dynamic as the school itself.
While the core subjects of English, Maths, and Science form the foundation of any academic program, what sets Rydal Penrhos apart is the school’s ability to enrich such subjects with extra dimensions and depth, captivating our pupils with novel and fascinating approaches to learning.
For instance, at Rydal Penrhos, a Year 4 Art lesson is about more than merely painting and colouring. Our pupils delve into a myriad of international artistic traditions, from Japanese wabi-sabi to Brazilian abstract art, and even learn first-hand from renowned local artists.
In the Senior School, our state-of-the-art Design Technology Studio equips pupils with industry-standard CAD software and multiple 3D printing machines, offering them unparalleled resources, and treating their curiosity and creativity with vital importance and sincerity.
Of course, Rydal Penrhos provides a broad spectrum of subjects beyond the English, Maths and Sciences of this world. However, this is not variety for variety’s sake; each subject serves a specific purpose and role within our overall offering. For example, our Pre-School curriculum includes Music and Welsh lessons, instilling important cultural components from the earliest age, and paving the way for exam success at GCSE and A-Level.
STEM education forms a cornerstone of our curriculum, beginning as early as Reception. This focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths not only yields outstanding academic results but also equips our pupils with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly complex modern world.
With STEM lessons complemented by dedicated subject-related clubs and events like STEM Day, it is clear our curriculum offering works in sync with our extra-curricular provision, creating incredible learning outcomes for all our children and young people.
Among the STEM fields, Computer Science has emerged as a popular addition to our curriculum. The subject was introduced to Rydal Penrhos in response to the evolving needs and interests of our pupils; something we carefully listen to always. This is why our GCSE and A-Level options processes involve thorough consultation with pupils and parents; to ensure our offer meets their exact individual aspirations and ambitions.
Central to our ability to offer such a broad and diverse curriculum are our talented teachers, whose wide-ranging expertise spans various domains. Their ability to foster cross-pollination between subjects – whether this be English and Drama or PE and Biology – enables our pupils to progress consistently across different areas of study, appreciating the interconnectedness of everything they learn on a day-to-day basis.
At Rydal Penrhos, we are committed to providing a curriculum that not only meets the challenges of the present but also prepares our pupils for the opportunities and demands of the future. With our focus on holistic achievement, innovation, and personalised teaching, we empower every pupil to reach their full potential and take a lifelong approach to learning.
The Rydal Penrhos Promise
Our Commitment to Your Child; Our Pupil
1. Small class sizes, experienced teachers, exceptional academic results.
2. Significant and ongoing investment in school buildings and equipment.
3. A broad and diverse curriculum for pupils aged two to eighteen.
4. Outstanding pastoral support from a dedicated team of specialists.
5. An extensive programme of school trips and extra-curricular clubs and activities.
6. A bespoke learning experience for every child.
