The RP Weekly: 17 September 2021
The weekly digital newsletter from Rydal Penrhos School.
The RP Weekly
17 September 2021
Open Day 2021
One week to go!
Open Morning 2021
Join us at our Open Morning, when we will welcome prospective pupils (age 2 - 18) and their families to the school - Saturday 25 September.
It runs from 9.30am-1.30pm. The final tour is scheduled to depart at 12pm.
Book now using the methods below.
- Email: admissions@rydalpenrhos.com
- Phone: 01492 530155
- Book online: https://rydalpenrhos.com/admissions/open-day/
Speech Day 2021
Year 13 and 11 achievements celebrated
One thing that’s been sorely missing from Rydal Penrhos over the last 18 months is the community coming together at events put on by the school during the academic year.
However, with coronavirus restrictions now being relaxed by the Welsh Government, it allowed staff to organise one of the most prominent dates on the calendar a little later than usual.
The school was thrilled to welcome pupils, staff, distinguished guests and parents for its Year 13 and 11 Speech Day, which took place in the Memorial Hall on Friday 10 September.
Speech Day began with a fantastic addition of the Welsh National Anthem before the school’s Chair of Governors Julian Barnes addressed those in attendance to thank them for all their incredible dedication throughout a challenging time.
John Waszek, Executive Principal of Rydal Penrhos, then took to the podium for his own special address. This was followed by the Year 11 class of 2021 received their GCSE Awards in recognition of their fabulous efforts.
Departing Head Boy Richard Wolfendale and Head Girl Anna Parry-Williams said goodbye to Rydal Penrhos with a thoroughly entertaining speech, which came shortly before the A Level and Additional Awards were given out.
There was also a musical performance to enjoy courtesy of talented cellist Gwyn Davies, who performed Cello Concertino in C by Klengel 3rd Movement.
Guest speaker and Prison Governor Jo Marston’s contribution was another memorable highlight, with Mr Barnes concluding the Speech Day event with a Closing Speech.
Congratulations to all our Speech Day winners.
GCSE Awards
- Art & Design – Sophie Madden
- French – Sophie Madden
- Biology – Ethan Bytheway
- Music – Ethan Bytheway
- Chemistry – James Copeland
- Physics – Ester Ball-Iverson
- History – Ester Ball-Iverson
- Religious Studies – Ester Ball-Iverson
- Business Studies – Gregor Perry
- Rick Maple Design Technology Prize – Gregor Perry
- Engineering – Chay Bonnington
- Mathematics – Joshua Stewart
- Physical Education – Joshua Stewart
- Michael James Award for Geography – Joshua Stewart
- Fisher Mayer Prize for Drama – Jasmin Lewis
- English Language – Tristan Martin
- Spanish – Tristan Martin
- English Literature – Saul Sugarman
- Food & Nutrition – Charlotte Hourihane
- Welsh – Emma Hackman
A Level Awards
- Ken Cooper Cup for Art – Lara Pyves
- Margaret Holden Prize for English Literature – Lara Pyves
- Dr Margaret Sutton Prize for Biology – Kevin Farrell
- Kerfoot Prize for Chemistry – Kevin Farrell
- Britton Prize for Physics – Richard Wolfendale
- Osborn Prize for Mathematics – Richard Wolfendale
- Michael James Cup for Geography – Richard Wolfendale
- Robson Cup for Contribution & Achievement in the Creative & Performing Arts – Richard Wolfendale
- Further Mathematics Prize – Morgan Kendall
- Michael James History Cup – Anna Parry-Williams
- Religious Studies Prize – Anna Parry-Williams
- Business Studies Prize – Olivia Trunkfield
- Economics Prize – Oliver Winters-Jones
- Psychology Prize – Amanda Sperring
- Cambridge Technical in Sport Award – Dylan Craddock
- Bradley Prize for Design & Technology – Josh Manning
- Jennifer Jones Prize for Drama – Cerys Cuddihy
Additional Awards
- Scarlett Salisbury Charity Award – Morgan Kendall
- Morris Cup for Personal Development – Harri Jones
- Rankilor Prize for General Progress – Harri Jones
- Tickner Trophy for Contribution to the International Dimension of the School – Alicia Zhou
- Jane Crosland Good Samaritan Cup – Lara Pyves
- Rosa Hovey Scholarship Award – Richard Wolfendale
- FORPS Prize for Head Boy – Richard Wolfendale
- FORPS Prize for Head Girl – Anna Parry-Williams
- Principal’s Award – Ben Purcell
Golf
Charley selected to Wales squad for England clash
It was a memorable summer for talented young golfer Charley Simpson. The Rydal Penrhos pupil achieved an exceptional amount on the golf course, further enhancing his reputation as one of the best young prospects anywhere in the country.
His achievements were vast, which was crowned by Charley winning the Welsh U16 Boys and Overall Open Championship after a stunning final round to emerge victorious by three strokes.
The Year 12 pupil was also part of the Wales U16 squad who took on Ireland, which was arranged quickly after the prestigious annual Quadrangular Tournament was cancelled for a second-straight year due to COVID-19 health concerns.
Charley left a fine impression on the national stage and he’s earned another call-up to the Welsh U16 set-up for a high-profile fixture this week against England.
The special challenge match will take place on Friday 17 September at Trentham Golf Club and Charley is part of an eight-player team set to do battle against their English counterparts.
They begin the weekend with a practice round on Friday, before heading into singles and pairs over the next two days.
Charley, who is also the Junior Captain at Rhos on Sea Golf Club, has had a busy summer seeing strong performances in competitions and has played at Trentham before, putting in a great three rounds at The Reid U14 Championship in 2019.
Award Winner!
Fayeth scoops Guild of Food Writers distinction
Many of our pupils at Rydal Penrhos take a great deal of pride in activities and initiatives away from school. This is something that’s highly encouraged and teaches our young people that being aware of their surroundings and the world around them could have a massive impact on their community and beyond in later life.
This is done in a variety of ways. From charitable causes, helping volunteer groups or raising individual awareness, pupils at the school are making a real difference in many shapes and forms and for a number of worthwhile causes.
Fayeth Jones, who is a Year 11 pupil at Rydal Penrhos, was chosen as one of two Welsh ambassadors for the Right to Food Federation this summer. As part of her role, she was appointed as a panellist at the Valley Fest Festival, which took place from 29 July until August 1.
Fayeth was advocating for the rights of young people and children across the country to have access to affordable healthy food. This has become a more concerning aspect of life across the country over the last 19 months, with the COVID-19 pandemic thrusting even more disadvantaged families into poverty.
Almost 10,000 people attended the festival and Fayeth got the chance to many people about the Right to Food Federation’s work, taking questions from those in attendance and conducting herself in exemplary fashion.
Her efforts at the festival and raising awareness regarding the topic were recognised with a prestigious award. Fayeth was presented with the Guild of Food Writers distinction, which was down to her investigative food work that is produced as part of her ongoing podcasts.
Fayeth managed to beat out big guns such as The Guardian to the award, which is a testament to her tireless commitment within a field she is extremely passionate about.
Wedding Open Day
Special event next month
Rydal Penrhos is thrilled to announce it will be hosting a special Wedding Open Day on Sunday 24 October from 11am-3pm.
The school’s listed buildings are set in beautifully landscaped gardens and Rydal Penrhos is the perfect venue for a wedding. The Open Day will be a chance for couples planning their big day to get a closer look at what we can provide, with our dedicated staff team on hand to answer any queries they might have throughout the event.
There will be a chance to explore the school’s stunning site, including the former Library – now named The Osborn Room.
With its vaulted ceiling, stained glass and parquet flooring, this room is steeped in history and has previously been the chapel and the dining hall. It is currently being converted into a wonderful event space for pupils and the wider community, which is capable of hosting events for up to 250 people.
Other prominent areas available to view at the Open Day are the Memorial Hall and New Field Pavilion, with the picturesque Memorial Quad another possible alternative for an outdoor occasion.
Also on campus is St John’s Church, which hosts chapels and assembles throughout the week and a place where couples might decide to tie the knot. Our school chaplain – the Reverend Dr Rob Beamish – will be pleased to discuss your service with you.
Our team of dedicated event planners are available to help you plan and enjoy your perfect day or evening. There will be a host of hand-picked suppliers Rydal Penrhos works with at the event, including:
- Cameo Brides – Bridal Wear
- Scent with Love – Florist
- D&D Occasions – Venue Dressing
- Event Lounge – DJ, Photobooth and Casino Table
- Peak Marquee
- Cassie M Bridal – Make-up and Hair
- Carly and Russ – Piano & vocal duo
- Dylan Cernyw – Harpist
- Vanilla Pod Events – Wedding stationery
- Cariad Cakes by Pippa
- Giggles and Games – Outdoor Games
- Jay Gatling – Close-up Magic
- Perfectly Planned by Helen – Wedding Planner
- Martin Vaughan Photography
- Dylan’s – Food Van
Anyone wishing to book their place at the Wedding Open Day, or for more information, call 01492 530155, email events@rydalpenrhos.com or you can book online here.
Alumni
Homecoming to remember for Georgia!
Georgia Wilson, who attended the Rydal Penrhos from 2007 to 2012, won two bronze medals for Team GB in the Para-Dressage in Tokyo this summer.
Her medal-winning efforts, in the Grade II Championship Test and Grade II Freestyle Test respectively, represent a sensational follow up to her victory at the 2019 FEI European Championships.
Georgia’s success is remarkable given she was forced to compete with a younger backup horse, and was called up at the last minute to replace eight-time Paralympic gold medalist Sophie Christiansen.
Following her medal-winning performances, Georgia said: “I’m on top of the world. I didn’t expect to go in there and win bronze. I just want to do this all over again, to show what else I can do and keep building the collection.”
Georgia’s journey to Para-Dressage success traces all the way back to when she started riding at just two years of age, following a physio’s advice that it would help her balance. It is a journey that has been followed eagerly by everyone who has known Georgia, including the communities at Rydal Penrhos and her hometown of Betws-yn-Rhos.
With less than five days’ notice, the people of the town organised a celebration on the local sports field to welcome Georgia home from the Far East.
More than 200 people attended and enjoyed live music and food including a hog roast, fresh salad and cakes.
An open roof vehicle had been arranged by the community to transport Georgia to the event.
Many other members of the community volunteered to help tidy up the sports field, bringing strimmers, paint and other equipment to lend a helping hand.
The afternoon was a roaring success enjoyed by many. The presence of Georgia’s horse, Sakura, or ‘Suki’ as she is affectionately known, was a particular highlight for everyone in attendance.
Among them was Mr Mike Farnell, a longtime member of the Rydal Penrhos teaching staff, currently serving as UCAS and Careers officer.
He said: “It was amazing to put on this celebration for Georgia. As a mark of her achievements, even villagers who had never met her wanted to be there to help her celebrate.
“Georgia told me how unexpected but very welcome the celebration was. She was more confident than maybe we gave her credit for as she had been performing exceptionally well in European Championships and hopes very much to be able to qualify for Paris 2024.”
Everyone at Rydal Penrhos could not be prouder of Georgia. We are so happy to see the wonderful welcome home, it is a clear reminder of the ability our sportspeople have to bring people together.
Sailing
Year 5 get back to basics
Our pupils got right back down to learning and enjoying the wealth of extra-curricular options available when they formally began the academic year on Monday 6 September.
There was a huge buzz in the air with relaxed COVID-19 restrictions, although the school remains highly committed to making things as safe as possible for pupils and staff alike.
One notable return to the calendar during the previous summer term was sailing. Rydal Penrhos has an RYA accredited Sailing and Water-Sports Centre, which has been part of the school for more than 60 years and has produced a wealth of sailors who go on to achieve great things at both national and international levels.
We are enormously proud to be one of the few schools in the country that offers sailing as part of the curriculum from Year 3 right up to Year 8. Something that builds confidence and key skills that they don’t necessarily learn in the classroom.
Year 5 got the opportunity to hit the water on the picturesque Colwyn Bay shoreline for their first sailing session of the academic year last week. This saw the group take part in a series of activities under the expert guidance of qualified instructors, who began by reaffirming the basics of sailing to pupils following their long and well-deserved summer break.
This was followed by each pupil getting the chance to have a go on the boogie boards and a stand-up paddleboard to round off a very enjoyable and successful first session for the group.
The school has its own private boat park with a choice of slipways for launching depending on surf conditions.
Rydal Penrhos’ sailing department is well-resourced with a fleet of dinghies appropriate for all abilities from beginner through recreational sailing and on into racing squad including Teras, Picos, Toppers, Fevas, RS500s, RS800 and access to the latest addition in new foiling boat technology – the Waszp.
Good luck to our wonderful sailing coaches as they prepare for their latest RYA inspection later this week, I’m sure they will ‘sail’ through!
Dramatic Society
Auditions held for Matilda the Musical
Rydal Penrhos has wowed audiences over the years with some Dramatic Society plays and musicals that have formed a key component of the school’s illustrious history regarding the performing arts.
These productions are always one of the most anticipated events on the calendar, with the likes of To Kill a Mockingbird, Annie the Musical and Les Miserables becoming incredible spectacles and a real showcase of confidence.
Although concerts, performances and sporting fixtures were put on hold over the last 19 months due to COVID-19 and safety precautions, the school has been putting plans in place for big events further down the line whilst keeping a close eye on restrictions, which have eased significantly to start the new academic year.
This includes the upcoming Rydal Penrhos Dramatic Society (Years 7-13) production of Matilda the Musical, which will take place from 1-3 December and promises to be yet another show not to miss.
Matilda is being held a little earlier than usual performances, with the change giving pupils more time to focus on examinations during the spring term and also allowing every year group an opportunity to participate.
Those looking for roles in the production took part in a special audition on Monday 13 September, which saw a plethora of pupils demonstrate what they could potentially bring to the cast.
There’s a mix of leading roles – both singing and non-singing – as well as lots of supporting roles. Head of Drama Rachel Jones and other staff working on the production will now cast pupils in specific parts before the all-important rehearsals get underway.
Matilda was originally a book created by legendary children’s author Roald Dahl in 1988 before becoming a feature film in 1996 and transformed into a stage musical in 2010.
The story itself centres on Matilda, who shares a home with her parents and brother, who do not appreciate her. When the Principal tortures her and her kind-hearted teacher, she uses her telekinetic powers to settle scores.
This promises to be another outstanding production that everyone at Rydal Penrhos is very much looking forward to.
Alumni
Ben secures his Veterinary Medicine degree
We are always delighted to hear about the success of our former pupils. Rydal Penrhos takes great pride in giving our eager learners the best possible foundation to build ahead of higher education and the working world, with many of the school’s alumni currently thriving at high-profile companies across the globe as a result.
Rydal Penrhos does this with a distinct pupil-centred approach to teaching. A high teacher to pupil ratio enables our incredible staff time to nurture each young person or child under their care to reach targets and goal that are constantly monitored and discussed.
This has brought some exceptional GCSE and A Level results as well as high value-added scores in recent years.
Ben Squibb, who left Rydal Penrhos in 2016 after a successful time at the school, recently completed his five-year degree course in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Bristol, passing his examinations with flying colours to earn the prestigious qualification.
This represents a significant achievement for Ben, who left a lasting impression at Rydal Penrhos both within his studies and also as part of the school’s tremendous First XV rugby team that featured a wealth of current RGC players and Welsh youth internationals at the time.
Not only this, but Ben has also managed to obtain employment at a Veterinary Practice situated in Ellesmere, Shropshire, which he began in July and is currently enjoying.
The school received a love email from Ben’s mother telling us about the news, where she also thanked Rydal Penrhos for all they did for him during his time with us.
We could not be prouder of Ben on completing such a challenging degree and attaining a job in his desired field. The school wishes him every bit of success in his new role.
LAMDA
Amazing assessment results!
Rydal Penrhos offers a fantastic Performing Arts provision that gives pupils of all ages a chance to boost various skills outside of their normal classroom environment.
Traits such as self-confidence, speaking in front of a crowd, and expressing themselves are all key components they can take with them into later life.
But those involved with the school’s Speech and Drama programme also get the chance to gain some additional qualifications along the way.
Pupils work hard throughout the year in readiness for examinations run by the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. These are held at various difficulty levels, leading up to a prestigious Grade 8 Gold Award for Year 13.
This is also available to those in younger year groups, which is a popular initiative that brings out their creative side and gives them a platform to express themselves under the guidance and support of staff.
Although their preparations were disrupted throughout the academic year, each member of the group displayed tremendous resolve to ensure goals remained unaltered.
Something that’s been prevalent across all areas of school life of late – both academically and within the wide range of extra-curricular opportunities available.
As you can see from the results below, our pupils did remarkably well.
- Phoebe J (Solo Introductory Stage 1): Distinction (90)
- Hannah P (Solo Introductory Stage 2): Distinction (96)
- Ela L-B (Solo Introductory Stage 3): Distinction (86)
- Alexandra L-M (Solo Introductory Stage 3): Distinction (88)
- Beatrice B-F (Solo Introductory Stage 3): Distinction (91)
- Steffan A (Acting Entry Level – Solo): Distinction (89)
- Oscar J (Devising Drama Grade 1 – Solo): Distinction (92)
- Lewis J (Devising Drama Grade 1 – Solo): Distinction (85)
- Martha R-J (Speaking Verse and Prose – Grade 1): Distinction (85)
This was the final set of achievements for the pupils under their former tutor Andrea Wilder, who has left to pursue a change in her own career path.
We cannot thank her enough for all her hard work over her time at Rydal Penrhos.
The school has appointed Rob Edwards as the new Drama Peri Teacher for Years 1-6, and anyone wishing to start or continue their speech and drama lessons can do so by contacting prep@rydalpenrhos.com
A huge well done to all our pupils on their latest LAMDA triumphs. Here’s to many more in the future.
Charity
Mr Edgley's sponsored swim
We are incredibly proud of our staff team at Rydal Penrhos. They support and guide our pupils incredibly well in pursuit of achieving their goals and go above and beyond the call of duty to assist charitable causes in the region and beyond.
Another example of this is transpiring throughout this month, with swimming coach Andrew Edgley in the midst of taking on a gruelling charity challenge to raise funds for a cause that has come to the fore more than ever over the last 18 months.
Mr Edgley is currently swimming 30 lengths of the school’s recently refurbished pool from Monday-Friday throughout every weekday in September, which will equate to 10 miles once completed.
He is raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Society, with Mr Edgley’s ‘Swim for Dementia’ something that is close to Mr Edgley’s heart.
A post on Mr Edgley’s JustGiving page, read: “The past year has been tough for everyone but coronavirus has hit people affected by dementia the hardest and continues to disrupt lives. So that’s why I’m making a splash and taking on Swim for Dementia.
“I am doing this swim as it’s a charity that means a lot to me.
“My dad was recently diagnosed with dementia and swimming has always been a passion of mine. So I will be swimming 10 miles over the 22 weekdays in September which works out at 30 laps each day.
“I’m hoping for donations and ensure Alzheimer’s Society can be there for the people who need them most.”
Anyone wishing to make a donation to the sponsored swim can do so here.
Biology
Intermediate Challenge success for duo
We are always proud of the academic achievements of our pupils in terms of results, overall progression and the accomplishments they attain in various competitions the school enters throughout the academic year.
These events and challenges – both regional and national – play a huge role in the development of pupils throughout the school. It enables them to gain additional experience and acquire useful knowledge both from a particular subject and sitting something in a pressure situation ahead of examinations.
Another fine example of this came from the recent Intermediate Biology Olympiad, which is an international competition held annually and is open to pupils in the first year of post-16 education anywhere in the world.
Those entering the Intermediate Biology Olympiad are encouraged to reference their participation in upcoming further/higher education applications – highlighting the extra lengths they go to in pursuit of maximising their education before embarking on the next stage of their respective journeys.
The competition consisted of a one-hour multiple-choice paper that was taken online.
Questions were set on topics pupils are likely to have covered at GCSE and in their first year of A Level. Some additional ideas were also introduced requiring their problem-solving skills and understanding of core principles.
After the scores were tallied, two Rydal Penrhos pupils emerged from the competition with success.
Paul Kenyon attained a Silver Award as a result of his fantastic efforts, with Damisola Animashaun earning a Highly Commended certificate.
Both Paul and Damisola are part of the school’s Senior Prefect team during the 2021/22 academic year.
Music
Second ABRSM Diploma for Niamh!
It was a hugely memorable time at Rydal Penrhos for Niamh Cook, a member of the school’s Class of 2021 that began her education with us in 2005 when enrolling in Reception.
She excelled under the care and support of the school’s dedicated staff, with her prowess in the performing arts something that was evident quite early on – especially in the field of music.
Niamh’s exceptional performances at concerts and her outstanding theoretical knowledge of how music is written and conducted led to some impressive grading achievements from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music during her time at Rydal Penrhos.
Once Niamh had successfully completed the Grade 8 stage, she then decided to take on not one, but two, ABRSM Diplomas alongside her A Level studies.
This was despite COVID-19 restrictions making things more difficult than usual in terms of acquiring the information needed to attain the clarinet and piano diplomas.
Niamh demonstrated an incredible commitment to her studies in the classroom and across both diplomas, gaining her Clarinet with a Merit and there was further good news when the pupil passed her Piano assessment to secure a well-deserved double recognition as a result of her marvellous efforts.
Not only this, but Niamh also managed to attain an A* grade in English Literature and two A grades in Fine Art and Music to round off a very pleasing all-through education at Rydal Penrhos.
Niamh now has the distinction of adding the ABRSM initials to the end of her name in recognition of these achievements, and she is moving on to the University of Bangor to study Music (BA Hons), a highly competitive course that represents another outstanding achievement from a pupil that is sure to go on to do great things in the future.
We could not be happier for Niamh, who is the embodiment of what can emerge from a Reception-Year 13 education at Rydal Penrhos, and we wish her the very best of luck in the next stage of her journey.
Eco
Mrs Woodthorpe praises efforts
One thing that is becoming more prevalent than ever across Rydal Penrhos life is how aware pupils are of their surroundings.
This has been especially evident since the coronavirus pandemic became a part of everyone’s day-to-day lives, but the increased risk surrounding climate change across the globe is something they are keen to highlight at every possible opportunity.
The fine work being done in Years 3-6 by the Eco Committee has been remarkable since the group was formed. Their passion, commitment, and willingness to give up their time for various initiatives and causes are all part of the rich, well-rounded education each pupil receives at the school.
Something that stands them in enormously good stead both throughout their time with us and in later life.
The committee is organised by teacher Julie Woodthorpe and led by eco leaders and members of the Prefect team. During their final activities of the previous academic year, pupils focused their attention on World Oceans Day to do their bit in keeping the planet healthy.
Mrs Woodthorpe explains more:
To celebrate World Oceans Day, the Eco Committee decided to highlight plastic waste, as so much single-use plastic ends up polluting the oceans around the world, harming creatures that live there and affecting humans too.
Their focus was on the plastic packaging used to wrap sweets which is difficult to recycle. They were interested to learn that Smarties are now packaged in paper bags instead of plastic bags which so many of their favourite sweets are still wrapped in.
Members of the Eco Committee from each year group wrote a persuasive letter to companies who use plastic packaging for sweets, to try and encourage them to reduce the amount of plastic wrapping waste and use a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative.
Plastic waste is a topic which the Eco Committee are keen to highlight each year. The penguin sculpture which was put at the front of the school for pupils to fill with plastic lids is now full. The vast collection of lids emphasises the amount of single-use plastic created from everyday products, such as milk bottles, juice bottles and cosmetic bottles.
Since the sculpture is now full and pupils are no longer collecting plastic lids, the Eco Committee would still like to involve everyone at home in their Eco activities.
They would like everyone to look at the products they use at home and commit to changing to a sustainable alternative. For example, this could be changing from buying single-use plastic milk bottles to having milk delivered in glass bottles by a milkman.
Another example is to refill bottles and containers at the local Eco shop to avoid buying items in plastic bottles or bags. Or buy loose fruit and vegetables instead of pre-packed products.
Staff
Two former pupils join our team
Everyone at Rydal Penrhos is very excited to announce the appointment of two members of our alumni to the support staff team.
The first of these is Hannah Patrick, who assumes the new role of Alumni Liaison and Fundraising Officer following a successful application process.
After studying at Rydal Penrhos until 2015, Hannah read Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Somerville College, Oxford. After graduating she took up a post in the College’s Development Office, where her work involved communicating with alumni and helping to organise events and fundraising both in-person and online.
Hannah said: I feel a special connection with Rydal Penrhos and I welcome the chance to give something back to the school.
“I am excited to begin my new role and I hope to be able to bring to bear in a new environment some of what I’ve learnt working for Somerville. I look forward to building new relationships with the school’s alumni community.”
Sarah James, who has been looking after the alumni, has now resumed and expanded her role in “current” pupils’ welfare, a growing role within the school team, caring for all children from aged two to 18 and something she is really looking forward to throwing herself into.
The daughter of former Rydal Penrhos Principal Michael James will still be involved with pupils through their school journey and beyond, and we thank her for looking after the alumni until this stage.
In addition to Hannah’s appointment, Lloyd Parry-Williams joins as the new Marketing and Admissions Assistant. This follows a busy and successful year for the department, which led to the recruitment of more than 100 new pupils.
Lloyd is the older brother of outgoing Head Girl Anna Parry-Williams and is a former Deputy Head Boy himself.
After leaving Rydal Penrhos in 2016, Lloyd joined the University of St Andrews to study English.
In July, he graduated with First Class Honours, winning the prestigious King James VI and Principal’s Scholarship Prizes, awarded for academic excellence in his department and across the graduating class.
Lloyd said: “Rydal Penrhos holds a dear place in my heart and always will.
“I am delighted to be taking up this role, having the opportunity to work in a great team. I want to see as many young people as possible enjoy the benefits of a Rydal Penrhos education, which I was fortunate enough to experience myself.”
Welcome back to Hannah and Lloyd. We are delighted to have you joining the team.
Stars of the Week
Congratulations to all!
Stars of the Week:
17 September 2021
- RLD – Charlotte – fantastic independent number work
- 1MW – Livia – working hard in every lesson
- 2RD – Hayden – great maths work and a fantastic picture of a woodlouse
- 2CC – Akshaya – exceptional throwing and catching skills
- 3KO – Iris – excellent maths work
- 4JM – Jacob – a super hard-working start to the year
- 5CC – Odin – being super polite and enthusiastic
- 6JP – Honey – for hard work in all areas
- Artist – Margot – beautiful wax resist shell study
- Performer - Hannah – for gaining a distinction in her grade 1 piano and playing beautifully in assembly
Golf
Charley lauded for sensational summer
One of the brightest young golfers anywhere in the country, who is also a pupil at Rydal Penrhos, has received praise for the strong representation of his local club and the school after a memorable summer.
Charley Simpson, who is entering Year 12 next month, has been travelling up and down the country to test his skills against the best in his age bracket across the UK, something that’s come with some exceptional accolades along the way.
Perhaps the crowning glory of Charley’s summer came at the Welsh U16 Championships at Neath Golf Club, which was held over two days and 54 holes in challenging conditions.
A sensational final round from Charley saw him emerge victorious in both the Boys U16 and Overall categories, which added to the U14 Boys’ honour he won in 2019.
Charley also represented Wales U16s against Scotland at Royal Troon Golf Club – a quickly organised event after COVID-19 travel complications caused the prestigious Quadrangular International Championships to be cancelled for a second-straight year.
The Rydal Penrhos exploits, coupled with those of Shaun Harpin, have drawn praise from Rhos on Sea Golf Club in recent days, where both aspiring players are members.
A spokesman for Rhos on Sea Golf Club, said: “These two young men are flying the flag for the club and we are extremely proud of them both.
“Not only are they both great golfers and ambassadors for our club, they are both gentlemen on and off the golf course.”
Charley recently signed a deal with Pro Dream USA, which helps young golfers from across the world connect with the best universities in the United States, supporting them throughout the strenuous process to fulfil academic and sporting potential.
This is a big two years ahead for Charley, who will be combining golf development alongside his A Level studies in pursuit of competing at the collegiate level across the pond.
