One of the highlights of the first half of Advent Term at Rydal Penrhos was the return of Founders Weekend, to the delight of pupils, parents, staff and alumni alike.

Rydal Penrhos is pleased to report the return of Founders’ Weekend, a school tradition that sees all parts of our community celebrate our shared ties to the school and commemorate the founders of Rydal Mount and Penrhos College, Thomas Osborn and Rev’d Fredrick Payne.

For years, alumni from all generations have returned to school for celebratory activities. This year’s weekend was filled with enthusiasm from current and former pupils alike. Some of the highlights of the weekend were:

Founders’ Service

The weekend’s celebrations began with a whole-school Founders’ Service in historic St John’s Church. Many alumni joined pupils from the Prep School to the Sixth Form as Rev’d Dr Beamish led the school in remembering Thomas Osborn and Fredrick Payne, the school’s founders.

Staff vs Leavers Football

The return of this much-loved fixture saw our teachers and staff lace up their boots once more to take on a team of Class of 2023 leavers and alumni. Following a spirited and energetic match, the Staff team emerged winners, 5-2. Thank you to the school’s outstanding catering team for preparing an excellent barbeque-style post-match dinner.

Rydal Penrhos Society AGM

This year’s Annual General Meeting saw the election of a new Society President. Former Head Boy Nick Fiorita (RPS 2006-19) takes on this historic and prestigious role, taking over from long-time Rydal and Rydal Penrhos teacher Mike Farnell, who will continue his involvement in the Society as Vice-President. Congratulations both!

Visit of Penrhos Class of 1983

We were delighted to welcome the Penrhos College Class of 1983 to celebrate their 40 year reunion. Many among them had travelled great distances to see one another, view the rehomed stained glass windows from the Penrhos College Chapel, and enjoy an extensive archive display in the Osborn Hall.

Saturday Sports Trophies

Following a dominant victory for the Old Boys’ Dragons team in 2021, the latest boys’ hockey match for the Mather Cup ended in a narrow 2-1 victory for the Dragons against a much-improved first team. Meanwhile, Rydal Penrhos sporting history was made as the 1st VII netball team defeated the Old Girls to claim the Natalie Kate Moss Trophy for the first time.

Eton Fives Competition

This year saw the triumphant return of Fives to Founders’ Weekend. Many returning alumni and new pupils turned their hand to this game synonymous with the school, which cares for the only courts in Wales. Across Saturday and Sunday, Matty Fiorita (RPS 2006-20) proved victorious alongside pupils Pippa and Amber.

Thank you to all the pupils, parents, alumni, teachers and staff who got involved in this fantastic celebration of all things Rydal Penrhos. We look forward to an even bigger and better celebration in twelve month’s time!