The secrets behind exceptional examination results
Rydal Penrhos continues to go from strength to strength thanks to some big changes that made a substantial difference to learning and development in the face of ever-changing times.
This is reflected in Rydal Penrhos achieving exceptional results consistently at A Level and GCSE. Something that came as a direct result of pupils and staff tirelessly working to maximise their potential on a daily basis.
At A Level in 2022, 64.2 per cent attained a pass rate at A*-A, with 37.78% securing A* grades thanks to their commitment and the impeccable preparation they received over their final two years at Rydal Penrhos.
Those achieving A*-B grades stood at 80.5% and 92.7% of pupils achieved A*-C grades as a result of their efforts.
Rydal Penrhos’ pass rate (A*-E) remained at 100%, which is the eighth time since 2000 that the school has managed this feat.
37 per cent of GCSE candidates secured A* (9-8) grades, with 57% falling in the A*-A (9-7) category as a result of their exceptional efforts.
This far exceeds the national average in Wales for those with A*-A grades, which stands at 25.1%.
The number of pupils securing pass rates from A*-B or 9-6 was 81%. A total of 97% of all grades were A*-C or 9-4, which far eclipses the national average in Wales of 68.6%.
This is the culmination of pupils, staff and parents all coming together in pursuit of the same goal, which was further aided by some excellent initiatives brought in by the school with prolonged progression in mind.
Comprehensive learning provision
Rydal Penrhos’ senior leadership team, together with teaching and support staff, strived to ensure that each pupil’s goals were met with meticulous planning and a comprehensive learning provision that extends way beyond the curriculum.
Examination preparation, leadership opportunities and outstanding coping mechanisms for pressurised situations. These are just some of the examples that benefitted our pupils - a trend that staff plan to continue long into the future.
Free iPads
A significant investment in state-of-the-art servers and free iPads for every pupil from Reception through to Year 13 had a marked improvement in the educational opportunities across Rydal Penrhos. This assisted their personal and academic progress.
Alongside this investment in equipment and software, training for teaching and support staff ensured that pupils continued to be taught by well-trained staff.
Teaching time increased
These changes were implemented to add significantly to the academic provision for our pupils whilst simultaneously enhancing their well-being and progression to University, Apprenticeships or the working world. For Year 12 and 13 pupils, this included more than 250 hours of additional subject teaching by specialist teachers.
Those in the final year of their A Level studies were typically taught 25 lessons per week – including PSHE and Physical Education – with additional personal study lessons supervised by teachers, and every pupil was mentored by a senior member of the teaching staff.
Small Class sizes
Another thing that has been highly beneficial for our pupils is the small class sizes and our high teacher-to-pupil ratio. These two factors enable our teachers to provide a more personal approach to learning, catering to each child’s needs to ensure they reach or often exceed the grades projected.
Pupil-centred approach to education
It is no secret that the school’s recent success comes from a strong focus on its pupils with a child-centred approach that has proven highly beneficial. We make sure that every pupil counts - that no pupil is left out, or left behind.
Constant monitoring, marking and feedback
Our teaching staff go above and beyond the call of duty to constantly monitor, mark and provide feedback on work. This provides examination candidates and all pupils information on potential areas of improvement and things they need to work on to develop academically at an important stage.
