October 2018 Rydal Penrhos newsletter Mr Smith

Q&A with the Headmaster READ ON What is the most enjoyable part of as inspiring our pupils’ creative juices. It also your role? makes for a pretty special Sailing Squad.

I'm tempted to say it's the bacon sandwiches What is the best part of the School Day? and pastries at my Headmaster's Breakfasts for parents but it’s undeniably those moments A tough choice between my Chaplain’s weekly watching a pupil achieve something they Pop Gospel (Wednesday 8.30 am) in St John’s initially thought beyond them. Chapel or lunch in our brand new Dining Hall followed by an espresso in the Sixth Form café. Sometimes it’s an exam grade, sometimes it’s a performance on stage or sports pitch or, as it What is the best advice for parents choosing was last summer, when a team of pupils their child’s school? completed the National Three Peaks Challenge. Whether they are eight or 18 it’s their look of Soak up the atmosphere and don’t be delight, pride and relief which makes being a frightened to ask challenging questions. Head the best job in the world. Most importantly look at the pupils and think What is unique about your school/college? “would I want my son or daughter to be like them, to be friends with them?” Location, location, location. 45 minutes from the foot of Snowdon, 45 minutes from the Then look at the staff, including the Head, and centre of Chester and just 3 minutes walk from ask “will they care for child, will they go the the beach with classroom views to die for. extra mile for them, will they inspire them?”

I have no doubt the sea air is responsible for the utterly joyful atmosphere on campus as well League Tables Strong performance from RP The school also recorded a 100 per “Neither do they recognise the cent pass rate, and this superb achievements of pupils who may demonstration of academic not have achieved those headline excellence placed Rydal Penrhos grabbing top grades but are 18th among co-educational nonetheless delighted to have boarding schools at A* in the either fulfilled or even surpassed league table published by The their potential. Times.

It was ranked an impressive 38th "Here at Rydal Penrhos we value among co-educational schools at such things far more. However, A* throughout the UK, and reached the league tables do recognise the the top 100 co-ed schools for its academic achievements of the A*-A percentage (98th). pupils and their teachers and remind us that as well as Rydal Penrhos was also placed everything else that we do so well Rydal Penrhos’ exceptional Upper Sixth Form pupils secured 45th among co-educational our academic standing is in very and record-breaking A-level 45.1% A*-A grades, which was the boarding schools at A*-A. good shape." results this summer resulted highest in the school’s history by in some high rankings in a some margin since the introduction Mr Smith, said: “League tables of Mr Smith prestigious league table of the A* grade. course cannot measure our 5Ls. published by a highly They do not rank our pupils’ respected national More than a quarter of all grades happiness or wellbeing, nor do they newspaper. were A*, which was another record, reflect the high participation rates in and 63.7 per cent of grades were co-curricular pursuits. A*-B marks. Donald Hughes

Fundraising campaign launched in memory of former Headmaster READ ON Donald Wynn Hughes took up the launched a special fundraising Penrhosians; so many have post of Headmaster at Rydal campaign that aims to raise £1 achieved success right across the School in 1946 and became a million over a three-year period, globe, in turn helping to transform much-loved figure that cared and there are plenty of ways the the lives of others. deeply about the power of school community can get involved education and the children under and make a difference. “The Donald Hughes Campaign for his care. Assisted Places seeks to ensure This includes individual donations that the School can continue to If a family fell on hard times, Mr and becoming a member of the provide life changing opportunities Hughes would arrange a financial 1946 Club with a standing order, and a first-class education well into solution under secrecy, and even and all proceeds will go towards the 21st Century for pupils with paid the fees himself in some the fund that will benefit future outstanding potential but whose cases, which was unknown to generations for years to come. families are in need of financial or anybody at the time. compassionate support. Mr Smith, said: “As one of Donald’s He sadly passed away in 1967 successors, I am privileged to The campaign is unashamedly whilst still in his role as sustain this legacy and can think of ambitious but it is my experience, Headmaster, and a memorial fund no better way of doing so than already, that when this School’s was set up in his honour to through this campaign. community puts its mind to continue the benevolent work that something we inevitably reach our he started, which still provides a “Rydal Penrhos is a special place - goal.” Rydal Penrhos School has contribution towards fee assistance one of the great schools in launched the most ambitious today. and indeed the UK. The School has For more information on the fundraising campaign in its helped transform the lives of campaign or to donate visit history in memory of a former To continue Mr Hughes’ generations of Rydalians, www.rydalpenrhos.com/ Headmaster. outstanding legacy, Rydal Penrhos Penrhosians and now Rydal changelives. Founders' Weekend Annual celebration a success Rydal Penrhos side worked strongest players, all of whom incredibly hard against their played a National Hockey final. accomplished opponents, who had all played in National Finals during their time at the school. "Our First XI played exceptionally well, working hard Goalkeeper Tallulah Batley throughout the game. Overall, it produced a number of superb was a very pleasing performance stops throughout the clash, with by all concerned, but the Old Deputy Head Girl Nuria Montolio, Girls' retain the cup for another Head Girl Gowri Pradeep and year." captain Lucy Carnall all performing well during the game. Mrs Head

Mrs Head, said: “As always, the Old A strong Old Girls’ team third successive year thanks in no Girls’ were able to gather their returned to the school to take small part to the efforts of former on its First XI for the Natalie Head Girl and Welsh international Kate Moss Trophy on Hannah Cashell, who demonstrated Saturday, September 15, her enormous talent to score four which saw a big crowd times during another accomplished descend on the Astro to display from the University of witness the contest. Newcastle student.

The encounter eventually went the Sister Sophie Cashell was also on way of the returning Old Girls’ for a target during their victory, but the The school’s annual Vikings the overall crown. game took place on Sunday, September 16 and took on a The competition saw a large crowd new short game, round-robin descend on New Field to see old format for the first time. pupils and the school’s current First XV take the field, and after a hugely A host of former Rugby Academy competitive day of action it was the stars made a welcome return to 2012 Leavers’ squad that emerged New Field, with six teams playing victorious on tries scored from the each other with a view to securing 2010 team.

There were a host of standout the day accolade and the overall performances on the day, with the trophy was named in honour of school side demonstrating their legendary Welsh international outstanding defensive prowess to centre and old Rydalian Bleddyn hold the eventual winners and a Williams. side that featured former professionals Pat Leach and Gareth Mr Boyd, said: “As always, it was a Wynne to a 0-0 draw. thoroughly enjoyable occasion and I would like to thank everyone that Harry Ormerod scooped the try of participated." The school once again Christian Cheesley in a pulsating hosted the fifth annual Welsh final to claim the coveted Paul Open Fives Competition over Bowden trophy. Founders’ Weekend on Saturday, September 15 and Current Eton Fives World Champion Sunday 16. Seb Cooley was among the field for Sunday’s action, which began with It was a hugely competitive first day Jonathan Osbourne and Ella James of action at the competition, which winning the Junior Open saw the team of Matty Fiorita and Championship with a hard fought George Watkins triumph over victory over Oliver Davies and schoolmates Anthony Bowe and Ariana Milligan.

The Wales Invitational Senior competition in consecutive years. Championship was also hotly contested and saw Cooley and Mr Cashell, who was present for Fiorita take home the title after a both days of the event, said: “This standout display against Josh is the fifth time we have hosted the Stewart and his partner in the final. competition and it was once again another marvellous showcase of This ensured that Fiorita has now talent both at the school and further won on both days and the afield." There were a host of standout Fellow national squad member individual performances from a Jacob Heaton-Rue also school perspective, which saw demonstrated his enormous talent Matty Fiorita hit the only goal of the with an accomplished display, with contest for the home side and Rafeez Mortuza, Jack Jones and Welsh international goalkeeper Joe Gardner also catching the eye Josh Thomas pulling off a host of with their respective contributions. stunning stops to keep his side in the contest.

As part of the school’s from his role after a 99-term stint at Founders’ Weekend Rydal Penrhos which concluded celebrations, the second with the U18 and U16 sides both annual Mathers’ Boys’ securing Welsh National Schools’ Hockey contest took place Championships. on Saturday, September 15, pitting a team of former The game was played in fantastic pupils against the current spirit and saw the Old Boys’ first XI. triumph by an eventual score of 3-1 against a school squad that was The trophy has been named in depleted by illness and still in honour of former Head of Hockey recovery from Rugby matches Phil Mather, who stepped down played earlier on in the day. The inaugural Rydal Penrhos parents and staff competed at the Open took place on Sunday, competition, which was played September 16 at the home of under stableford handicap rules, North Wales Golf Club in and after a hugely competitive day Llandudno. of action Sue Wood was crowned the overall winner thanks to a A host of former and current pupils, fantastic round.

Mike Hindley also came away with There were a number of other something to show for his efforts impressive displays throughout the after securing the Men’s category in hugely successful event. fine style. Barbara Easton, who is the Mrs Easton then gave her highly- Director of Education for the anticipated address to the Methodist Church, gave an congregation, before the service inspiring address at the concluded with Ewan Luke laying school’s annual Founders’ commemorative flowers in Day service at St John’s remembrance of Rydal Penrhos’ Church on Friday, September founding fathers and a fine 14. rendition of the iconic Welsh hymn Calon Lan. The service was attended by staff, pupils, governors and parents to Mr Cashell, said: “Our Founders’ kick-off the Founders’ Weekend Day service is always something festivities, with Headmaster Simon that fills every member of the Rydal Smith and the Reverend Nick Penrhos community with an Sissons opening proceedings with enormous sense of pride, and we their own were delighted that such a well- respected figure such as Barbara This was followed by a reading agreed to join us at the event. from Head Girl Gowri Pradeep and Head Boy Nick Fiorita, with Maths “It was another weekend that will teacher Andy Thomas also lending live long in the memory and was a contribution in the form of a further proof of our rich history and prayer. the extremely solid foundations from which Rydal Penrhos is built.” Dining Room Refurb complete Work to significantly improve considerably in the coming years. Rydal Penrhos’ Dining Hall and kitchen area is now Mr Smith, said: “This will reap complete. significant benefits in the long term which will shorten queuing time, This development began earlier this further improve the menus and year after a period of “consultation” provide a contemporary dining lasting several weeks between experience which we can all Headmaster Simon Smith and appreciate and be proud of. Holroyd Howe, who took over the school’s catering provision on St “I look forward to inviting everyone David’s Day. associated with Rydal Penrhos you to experience our new facilities.” The work has seen a complete restructure of the serving areas and This is the latest in a series of furniture at the facility, and the exciting developments around kitchen has also seen a major Rydal Penrhos as part of their upgrade with the installation of ongoing desire to improve each Construction teams have been refurbishment of the Sixth Form state of the art equipment as part of area of both the Prep and Senior busy improving large portions of the Ferguson Centre thanks to a pupil- the investment, which will benefit sites to enhance the experience of Prep School throughout the led campaign that raised more than both day and boarding pupils each pupil under their care. summer, in addition to a complete £90,000.

Dining Hall revamp complete Peer Mentor 2018-19 team announced Rydal Penrhos School is delighted to A large number of Year 12 pupils have also Kathleen Cheesley, Bijou Rajagopal, Harry announce its Peer new Mentor team earned positions of responsibility in the months Hackman and Orla McGagh rounding off a big for the current academic year. to come, with Zahra Shamsi, Mattthais Fiorita, team of Peer Mentors to guide and support Sam Jones, Keira Bonnington, Brona younger members of the Rydal Penrhos After hopefuls went through an assessment Richardson, Niamh Hall, Holly Battersby, Millie community. process to judge their suitability for the role, a Collins, Amy Yue, Iestyn Williams, Eddie Farrell, group of 22 have been selected by staff members following a highly successful trial period.

The team will be on hand to lend support to younger members of the school community throughout the year, while also contributing to a large number of specially organised events for Year 7 pupils, designed to improve confidence, group cohesion and team spirit within the group.

Head Boy Nicholas Fiorita and Head Girl Gowri Pradeep with head the group, which also consists of Upper Sixth Form pupils Ewan Luke, Deputy Head Boy Miles Poller, Grace Ormerod, Rafeez Mortuza and Jenny Blackman. Lower School Instagram initiative launched Lower School pupils are where he spoke about the dangers about to embark on a special and correct usage of social media, social media initiative the rules behind the scheme and implemented by Rydal what he wants to achieve from Penrhos’ marketing and initiative. communications department. There was also time for a question The youngest members of the and answer session regarding their Senior School community will be new Instagram and other social tasked with taking over their very media related issues, with Year 8 own Instagram account, which will pupil Bea Gardner piloting the detail their day-to-day lives at account during Rydal Penrhos’ Rydal Penrhos from a pupil Open Morning event on Saturday, perspective. October 6.

Two members of Year 7 and 8 will Mr Jones, who will be monitoring get one week each with their own the account along with Network phone, working together in a pair to and Services manager Gareth document their usual schedule as Robinson, said: “We are always of using social media in a safe and “Social Media is an increasingly well as other special events on the looking for ways to get our pupils correct way, in addition to taking significant role in everyday life and calendar. involved in promoting the school in responsibility and using their own it is hugely important that our a positive way, and this idea has initiative to see for themselves what young pupils know how to use it In preparation for the new scheme, really got everyone excited. makes an engaging post. and, more importantly, become Communications Assistant Dean more aware of its impact and Jones spent some time with the “What we are aiming to install into importance in and out of school.” group on Tuesday, October 2, those who use it is the importance Governance

Mrs McKinnel appointed to board READ ON She has been chair of the Cabin Crew Manager at us through the ever more Friends of Rydal Penrhos Britannia Airways, where she complicated and legislative Committee, and has met pilot and husband waters of the modern world. assisted at various charity, Stephen. We warmly welcome all new social and formal events governors. including the Christmas She is also a keen supporter Market in aid of Ty Gobaith of community initiatives “Together we are planning to Children’s Hospice, the Prep having volunteered at the become the most vibrant School Secrets Room, recent Open Day held by the independent boarding and Sports Day and Open Conwy RNLI, and recently day school in the North Morning. accepted an offer to join the West. fundraising team at Ty The new governor brings a Gobaith. “Simon (Smith) and his team wealth of legal expertise to will continue, through our the board, having worked Chair of Governors’ Julian 5Ls philosophy, to strive for Rydal Penrhos School Nick Grenfell-Marten and within the Judicial process Barnes, said: “Debbie brings the best academic results is delighted to Lucy Davies to the board for the last decade and is her inimitable enthusiasm whilst ensuring our pupils announce the earlier this summer. also an appraiser, mentor with strong organisational are happy, healthy and well- appointment of Debbie and recruiter as part of her and legal abilities. balanced individuals. McKinnel to its Mrs McKinnel is already remit. Individuals who will make a Governing Body. well-known throughout the “These new appointments positive impact on the Rydal Penrhos community, will see a Board that is world.” The popular figure is the with son Harrison joining the Mrs McKinnel has previously equally balanced between latest exciting addition to the Prep School in 2012 and is worked at Cheshire men and women. It will also school’s governance now a Year 7 pupil. Probation and After Care see that we have a wide following the additions of Service and was also a range of skill sets to guide Ferguson Centre

Refurbished site officially opened READ ON Ferguson Centre officially open

The Rydal Penrhos Mr Smith kicked-off proceedings Ferguson Centre, which will be the Guests also enjoyed a fantastic community turned out in with a short address about how the hub for both the Sixth Form and the lunch from catering providers force to officially open its fundraising campaign “embodied school community in the coming Holroyd Howe at the facility’s new newly refurbished Sixth Form everything we try to install with our years. Café’ J’s, which has been named in Ferguson Centre. 5Ls philosophy”, and thanked recognition of another anonymous everybody that donated to the donor to the cause. A large number of staff, current and cause. former pupils, in addition to Governors’ and parents attended a He then read a message from special ceremony at the site on former pupil and leading film Saturday, September 15 as part of producer Duncan Kenworthy OBE, the school’s Founders’ Weekend who donated a significant amount celebrations. to the project but was unable to attend the event due to a film This was the culmination of a pupil- Premiere in New York. led initiative to renovate the site, which exceeded expectations and Recently departed pupil Anna raised more than £90,000 after Richardson, who was the driving initially setting a target of £50,000. force behind the idea alongside Morgan Roberts, cut the ceremonial ribbon to formally open the Arkwright

Trio gain Engineering scholarship READ ON Arend Franssens, Ioan Peake-Jones As well as a variety of enrichment opportunities and Prompt Utenpattanun, Year 12 associated with the scholarship, Arend, Ioan pupils at Rydal Penrhos, all and Prompt will receive £300 a year to assist successfully came through a thorough with their technical studies and wider assessment process and have been experience of engineering. awarded Arkwright Engineering Scholarships to continue the Rydal Penrhos’ thriving Design and Technology exceptional work already done by the department, which continues to go from trio in their chosen field. strength-to-strength under the guidance of Phil Sutton and his dedicated staff team, will also The scholarship is offered to UK pupils to be given £200 to help with the of STEM pursue a career in engineering, computing and (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). related areas of technical design. Mr Cashell, said: “We are very proud of Arend, All three have been or will be paired with a Ioan and Prompt for securing such a sought- sponsor, which is normally a business within after scholarship, and full credit goes to them the industry, and they will also attend a formal and to Mr Sutton for giving them the best ceremony acknowledging their outstanding possible chance of success." achievement at a later date.

Arkwright scholarship success Drama Inspiring trips to start academic year Matilda the Musical

Lower School pupils got the chance to experience a big stage performance as part of an ongoing learning initiative.

The Year 7 contingent travelled to the Palace Theatre in Manchester on Wednesday, September 19, which is one of many such excursions organised throughout the academic year by passionate English, Music and Drama staff at the school.

Winner of 85 international awards, including 16 for Best Musical, the Royal Shakespeare Company's touring production of Matilda the Musical has been described as “a superb depiction” of the iconic Roald Dahl novel.

With book by Dennis Kelly, original songs by Tim Minchin and direction by Matthew Warchus, Matilda The Musical is the story of the extraordinary little girl. A large number of Drama pupils got the chance to improve their learning thanks to two special trips.

The separate events are part of an ongoing initiative by the school’s thriving department to give each pupil the chance to observe some of the best actors in the country at various plays, musicals and concerts throughout the academic year, and Year 10-12 pupils paid a visit to Theatr Clwyd in Mold on Tuesday, September 11 to take in The Thirty Nine Steps.

The 39 Steps, which played for nine years in ’s West End and is based on the screenplay from Alfred Hitchcock and John Burton, has been described as “a brilliant, fast- moving spoof” and includes legendary scenes such as the chase on the Flying Scotsman, the escape on the Forth Bridge, the first ever theatrical bi-plane crash and a death-defying finale. This was followed by another theatre trip on The award-winning comedy was packed with Thursday, September 13, which saw a group finely-tuned farce and Buster Keaton inspired make the short journey to Venue Cymru in slapstick delivered with split-second timing and Llandudno to witness The Play That Goes ambitious daring. Wrong. DofE Seven secure silver The seven successful pupils were all awarded the DofE’s Silver accolade after coming through the assessment process with flying colours in order to achieve their goal.

This achievement is a testament to how hard each of them has worked over the course of the previous academic year, with Holly Battersby, Luke Davies, Arend Franssens, Jamie Lavery, Jake Palmer-Reid, Iestyn Williams all managing to achieve this impressive feat.

In addition, as he prepares for his Gold DofE expedition in a few weeks’ time, Upper Sixth Form pupil Joe Morrow has also found time to conclude the Silver Award he began at his previous school. Ruby West End Stage School lead role for pupil Ruby James once again attended the West End Stage for the fifth consecutive year during the holidays, which is regarded as the top drama school of its kind in the country for young people aged eight to 21.

The passionate 17-year-old joined other young hopefuls at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama for the one-week programme, where notorious actors such as Ewan McGregor, Daniel Craig and Orlando Bloom all trained.

After impressing the coaches considerably, the Prefect was chosen as the lead role of Ariel for the performance of The Little Mermaid to conclude the week.

This included a singing and dance solo during their depiction of the Walt Disney classic, and The two-day course, which is also run by West Ruby has been a huge part of the Performing Ruby will continue to pursue her dream over the End Stage, will be held at Glass House Studios Arts success at Rydal Penrhos in recent years, half term break at a special intensive course to and go through a wealth of different elements of playing a prominent role in the outstanding improve her chances of securing a place at the application process, including interview Dramatic Society performances of To Kill a Drama School. techniques and performance during devised Mockingbird and Annie the Musical. pieces. Boarding Boarders' BBQ kicks off term Boarding pupils at met up each pupil throughout their time within the school grounds for within the RP community. a special social event prior to the first full week of the There a huge number of examples academic year. of such events thanks to Rydal Penrhos’ thriving Weekend Mr Smith welcomed boarding Activities programme, while pupils and staff to his Heathfield boarders also participate in weekly home for a Boarders’ Barbecue on sporting fixtures, trips and the all- Sunday, September 9. important house competitions.

The guests were treated to a lavish They are also given plenty of time spread courtesy of Rydal Penrhos’ to reflect and immerse themselves new catering providers Holroyd in their respective studies, with staff Howe, which also included salad on hand at any given time to lend and a vegan option. support and advice when needed.

The school’s boarding community Mr Cashell, said: “Our Boarders’ socialised and enjoyed another Barbecues have become hugely beautiful evening on the North popular since the arrival of Holroyd Wales coast and this the latest Howe to Rydal Penrhos, and I prominent event put on as part of would like to thank them on behalf the boarding life experience at of the school for putting on some Rydal Penrhos, which have been fantastic food for staff and pupils." implemented with a view to enhancing the overall experience of Alumni

News from former pupils READ ON Dr Baker receives award from Prime Minister

School pupil, and he finally Dr Mark Baker, who left the managed to acquire the In recognition of his outstanding "I wish you all the very best with the school in 2003, formed the Grade I Listed site earlier this commitment to saving the restoration works which will Gwrych Castle Preservation summer following a lengthy structure, Dr Baker has been preserve the castle for generations Trust aged 13 as a Rydal 22-year campaign. recognised with a Points of Light to come." School pupil, and he finally Award from Prime Minister Theresa managed to acquire the May. Dr Baker said it was "a great honour and rather humbling" to be The award recognises outstanding chosen for the award, and he volunteers who are making a recently revealed a £15 million, change in their community and 25-year project to completely inspiring others. transform the castle for the pupil to enjoy and will eventually offer In a letter to Dr Baker, Mrs May holiday accommodation. wrote: “From launching the Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust at just 13 Gwrych Castle was built by Lloyd years old, to finally receiving the Hesketh Bamford-Hesketh from the keys to the castle this year, your early 1810s and completed by remarkable determination and years 1822. It was a stately home for of campaigning have saved an more than 100 years with its own important part of local history. stables, brewery, dairy, bakery and ice house. Efan Jones, who left the flurry of votes, he managed to school in 2016, is a talented come away with the overall prize. scrum-half that was part of the hugely successful This is the latest in a long line of Academy programme, which successes for the youngster, who is is run in partnership with the set to play a starring role for Mark Gogs and the Welsh Rugby Jones’ men this season after a Union. frustrating time with injuries in recent years, and Jones was on the He won the battle for the number scoresheet again for RGC in their nine shirt following the departure of dramatic 34-26 victory at Swansea Alex Schwartz to Cornish Pirates, to extend their perfect start to the and the former Welsh U18 top flight campaign. international crossed the white wash for a sensational score to Mr Boyd, said: “It is fantastic to see round off an incredible performance Efan hitting the ground running this to kick off the campaign in style. season with RGC, and a big season awaits him thanks to the added Jones was nominated for the responsibility he has been given Principality Premiership try of the which is thoroughly deserved." week for his efforts, and after a

Jones wins Try of the Week Parry-Jones makes RP return

Gwen Parry-Jones, who attended Penrhos College, paid a special visit to the school on Monday, September 24 to film a portion of a television feature being produced by BBC Wales.

She was recently appointed as the director of nuclear operations by Horizon Nuclear Power, who are developers at the £12bn site on Anglesey.

During her visit, Ms Parry-Jones took a walk through the corridors and viewed some old pictures of herself at Penrhos, before visiting the Biology department to speak with a number of Sixth Form pupils. “Perhaps somebody will cut a ribbon or draw a curtain? Or maybe you’ll just open the door and declare it - incontrovertibly - open. That could be just the thing.

“I hope the Kenworthy Room is a really great place for Rydalians to study. And that lots of fabulous thoughts are thought here - poems read, facts learned, dreams dreamt, schemes hatched, theories arrived at, equations resolved, arguments Duncan Kenwirthy donated a Mr Kenworthy, said: “I’m sorry not “How do you launch a study room? constructed, maybe even significant amount to the to be there with you for the opening Smashing a bottle of champagne screenplays written – outside pupil-led campaign to of the Ferguson Centre and the on the door is a bit impractical and school hours, of course. renovate the Ferguson Kenworthy Room, but my new film would probably send the wrong Centre, and in recognition of The Children Act has just had its message, so I hope that idea has “In other words I hope that that it’s his generosity the new study premiere in New York and opens been dropped. the perfect place to prepare for area has been renamed The tonight (Friday). your amazing lives to come.” Kenworthy Room.

Kenworthy's message for Ferg opening Team Davies to run Half Marathon

Hannah, Catherine and Elinor cancer has, not only on those Davies will travel to South suffering the disease, but those Wales on Sunday, October 7 around them. to test their endurance at the Cardiff Half Marathon, and “Our granddad, Tadcu or they are collecting donations Raymonde as he was known in our ahead of the event which will house, was diagnosed with lung be donated to Cancer cancer earlier this year and died a Research UK. month later.

The trio, who will be joined on “Whilst, fortunately, he was spared ‘Team Davies’ by father Gareth, will months of painful treatment, unlike be running in memory of many other cancer sufferers, the grandfather Raymond Lewis, who care he received during his short died of lung cancer earlier this year. illness was fantastic and in raising money for Cancer Research UK, we A post on their JustGiving page, hope to help eradicate the disease. said: “Like most families across the country, we have recently been “As our training gets underway and fundraising efforts." so by visiting Team Davies’ affected by cancer and we have underlying injuries and excuses JustGiving page at seen, first-hand the terrible damage begin to emerge, so too do our Anyone wishing to donate can do https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/h… Tom Williams, who left the school in 2014, made his Pro 14 Debut for and Tom makes Pro14 debut started in their resounding 46-14 home success over Cheetahs last weekend. Following a narrow win over Edinburgh, the seven-try Ospreys Williams is another successful stormed to a bonus point victory. product of the Rydal Penrhos Rugby Academy, which is run in Other tries from Scott Otten, partnership with Principality and Alex Jeffries Premiership side RGC and the sealed the win. Welsh . Mr Boyd, said: “Tom has worked The talented back recently received incredibly hard to make it to the a contract extension from the level he is at right now, and he can region after deciding to focus more be enormously proud of his on his development as a club achievements especially player following a hugely successful considering he is just working his stint with the Welsh Rugby 7s side way back into the squad after a in recent years. very eventful World 7s Cup with Wales. Two tries from Justin Tipuric and Alun each guided the Ospreys to a second Pro14 win in Swansea. FORPS Summer Fair donation to Young Minds The Friends of Rydal Penrhos A total of £1,633.93 raised for projects Young Minds recently joined forces with The committee have set aside £224 from throughout the school and Young Minds from National Autistic Society to form Always, the their Summer Fair proceeds to donate the fun-filled event, which has emerged as one campaign for stronger rights to protect young to Young Minds, which is widely of the most eagerly anticipated events on the people living in mental health hospitals and recognised as the UK’s leading charity school calendar. their families when they need it most. championing the wellbeing and mental health of children and young people. Amplified puts young people and their parents at the heart of the mental health system to create user-centred services where their voice matters.

Their overall mission is to improve the emotional resilience and mental health of children and young people throughout the UK by informing and actively engaging with children, young people, parents, policymakers and professionals.

Mr Cashell, said: "This is a fantastic gesture from our Friends of Rydal Penrhos committee and we are indebted to them for all the hard work they put in throughout the academic year to raise money for the school and worthy causes in the region and beyond." Cricket

Arran gets Lancs' nod for India tour READ ON Arran set for India tour with Lancs

Arran Sen has been selected working with Project Front Foot and to the county’s U13 the Dharavi Cricket Academy, performance squad that will where they will spend time travel to Mumbai, India for a coaching children associated with special tour in February after the scheme. This is the latest in a impressing throughout the series of achievements from the assessment process. sports scholar and boarding pupil, who has gone from strength-to- Paul Allott, director of cricket at strength since joining Rydal Lancashire, said: “We aim to Penrhos last year and achieved a develop more than just cricketers – wealth of accolades during his first we want to see our boys and girls year at the school. emerging through the pathway as durable, well-rounded, resourceful He quickly established himself as a and broad minded, capable of first XI mainstay despite his tender adapting to challenging conditions age, and won the Spirit of Cricket and finding a way to succeed.” Award for his polished performance during Rydal Penrhos’ annual In addition to a series of fixtures fixture against Marylebone Cricket and an intense training schedule, Club. the Lancashire squad will be Mr Tuck Interview with S&C Intern What attracted you to the department has already the U18 squad on a daily role? done. basis. I ran warm-ups and cool downs before and after I was attracted to the role What do you think you can training and matches as well because of the opportunity bring to the role? as performing daily wellness to work with a wide range of and fatigue tests. talented athletes in different I have had experience sports. It is also a great coaching a variety of sports I was also responsible for all opportunity to gain valuable including cricket and rugby gym programs for the team experience coaching on- as well as working at ensuring they were at their field and in the gym while Swindon Town Football Club physical best throughout the still learning from the as a sport scientist. I have a session. Over the summer I coaches and teachers at the passion for helping people helped with pre-season, school. improve and relish any testing; maximal strength, opportunity to coach. I can’t agility, aerobic endurance, How excited are you to wait to fully engage with sprint speed and movement take on the role? school life and help out capacity. where ever I can. How have you found your and Athletic Development I am very excited about During my time at Swindon I first weeks at Rydal sessions during games starting the role, meeting all How did you prepare for also worked with younger Penrhos? lessons. the staff and pupils and the role this summer? age groups running athletic I really looking forward to helping them improve. I development sessions to My first few weeks at Rydal continuing my work can’t wait to use the schools Over the past year I have improve the players physical Penrhos have been brilliant throughout the school year. fantastic facilities and been working at Swindon literacy. getting to meet all the staff continue the great work the Town Football Club as a and pupils as well as starting Athletic Development Sport Scientist, working with S&C sessions in the gym Golf Charley crowned county champion Charley Simpson, has enjoyed a hugely The pupil has developed considerably as part successful summer which has seen of Rydal Penrhos’ sports scholarship and Golf him achieve a host of regional and Academy programme, which has gone from national accolades, and he turned in an strength-to-strength since its inception thanks outstanding performance at the recent to the school’s dedicated coaching staff led by North Wales Counties Boys’ programme co-ordinator Ian Richardson. Championship at Llangollen Golf Club.

The 13-year-old produced a standout display throughout which saw him surge to the top of "Charley has emerged as one of the shining the leaderboard, and he held his nerve in the lights of our Golf Academy programme, and closing stages to be crowned U13 champion as it is great to see all his hard work paying off a result of his outstanding efforts. during what was a truly outstanding summer .He is hard-working and dedicated to Charley also earned another regional improving all areas of his craft, and there is representative honour with Denbighshire no telling what Charley can achieve in the against Flintshire at Clays Golf Club, and he future if he continues to develop at his extended his unbeaten record at this level with current rate." a victory with partner Joe Williams to lead his side to glory. Mr Boyd

Charley's championship win Sport Success stories aplenty Cameron Shaw was part of a large especially with their work in the swimming pool. contingent that competed at the Conwy Tri-Stars Triathlon event, which This includes Year 7 pupil Jaydon Blears, who took place in Mold on Sunday, also triumph from his age group at the Mold September 9. showcase.

The 14-year-old demonstrated his outstanding Mr Boyd, said: "Not only is Cameron achieving talent by emerging victorious from the Tr-Stars a remarkable amount individually, but he is also 3 category in convincing style to further displaying superb leadership skills to inspire the enhance his growing reputation as one of the next generation of young triathletes in the area, best young prospects in the region and beyond. which is equally as pleasing from our point of view here at Rydal Penrhos. This is the latest in a long line of accolades for the Tri-Stars Conwy squad member, who was "Cameron has worked very hard to overcome ranked third in Wales within his age group prior his injury problems and he has really hit the to an injury suffered earlier in the year. ground running since getting back to competitive action and hopefully this can give In addition to his own exploits, Cameron has him an enormous amount of encouragement as been training younger members of the Tri-Stars he looks to rise up through the Welsh rankings Conwy team during their Thursday evening once again." sessions at Parc Eirias in Colwyn Bay,

Cameron's Triathlon triumph Tomos Davies and Sam Bixby were involved for RGC's U18 and U16 squad for their Regional Age Grade Championship contests against Dragons on Sunday, September 16.

Forward Sam started for the U16s, who managed to secure a creditable 14-14 draw with their South Wales opponents, going ahead early on before being pegged back late on.

RGC U16 head coach Gav Hodgkinson, said: “You could clearly at the end from their reaction see how frustrated the players were with the result.

“The fact that they were so disappointed just shows how far they have come and the made by the boys who have shown a fantastic Tomos, who is part of the Rydal Penrhos Rugby standards that they now expect of themselves. attitude throughout. We now have two weeks Academy programme which is run in off before we come back and start prepping for partnership with RGC and the Welsh Rugby “Overall we are delighted with the progress our fixtures in the New Year.” Union, was part of the Gogs’ U18 side that fell to a 36-22 defeat on their travels. Despite the defeat it was a positive display from the group, who pulled it back within two with 11 minutes Tomos & Sam star for RGC remaining before hosts pulled away late on. Will's Welsh Rugby League success

Will Lynch, an Upper Sixth Form pupil at Rydal Penrhos, was selected to the Wales U19 side that travelled to Serbia this week to compete at the high- profile European Championships.

The 17-year-old has turned in a series of exceptional displays throughout the tournament, and crossed the white wash in Wales’ emphatic 90-0 victory over Ukraine.

After suffering a semi-final defeat at the hands of England, the Welsh side responded well to finish in third position thanks to a playoff win to conclude an outstanding collective effort from the group. George Watkins was part of the Mochdre U15 side that turned in a fabulous effort to secure the North Wales Championship with a fine win over Gwersyllt to conclude what was an outstanding campaign for the group.

The 12-year-old was one of the youngest members of the squad but demonstrated his impressive skill-set to contribute significantly to their overall success, and this is the latest in a long line of milestones throughout the summer for the aspiring star.

He has been involved heavily with Mochdre’s third XI throughout the summer, gaining some fantastic experience at senior level despite his tender age.

George achieves cricket triumph The tournament got off to a great start with a 1-0 win over Coleg Menai. The team dominated from the off set with everyone working well as a Eryri U18 Girls' Hockey unit. This culminated with a goal by Anna Parry- Williams in the first half. We played equally well Tournament in the second half with plenty of chances, that just couldn't find the back of the net! The second match was played against a strong Coleg Meirion Dwyfor side. The team reacted well to the challenge presented with all players working together. The defence worked particularly well. 3-0 loss. Determined to get to the semi-finals, the team came out with confidence against Ysgol Syr Hugh Owen. This was proven by a goal from Gowri Pradeep. To follow this in the second half, Keira Bonnington scored a second goal, assisted by Amanda Sperring. The matched ended 2-0. A final push was needed against a skilled Ysgol Tryfan side in the semi-finals. Despite having played 3 previous matches, the team came out strong again. The first half ended 0-0 owing to the team working together, defending well. The match ended 1-0, but despite this, there were excellent performances from all players, particularly goalkeeper Caitlin Teece. Jaydon Blears, a Year 7 pupil at the support and guidance of specialist coaching school, was part of a large contingent staff situated at the school. that competed at the Conwy Tri-Stars Triathlon event, which took place in Mold on Sunday, September 9. "This was an absolutely outstanding result and one that Jaydon can be enormously The 11-year-old turned in a fantastic display in proud of. the swim, run and cycle sections of the race, eventually crossing the line in first position in He has already displayed a tremendous his age category. attitude during his initial stages within the Rydal Penrhos community, and we are Jaydon is a new arrival at Rydal Penrhos, looking forward to helping him achieve his having joined the school earlier this month goals and develop both academically and ahead of the start of the academic year, and he from a sporting perspective." has also represented Colwyn Bay Rugby Club at various youth levels to date. Mr Boyd

He received a medal acknowledging his efforts on the day, and the notable achievement will stand him in good stead as he looks to progress in the coming months under the

Jaydon wins regional Triathlon Thank you for reading October 2018 Rydal Penrhos newsletter

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