North Wales school shortlisted for national education award

A special campaign to boost engagement at Rydal Penrhos has been shortlisted for an award.

The Institute of Development Professionals in Education have named the #RPFamily initiative as one of three possible winners of the Schools’ Engagement Campaign of the Year, and Rydal Penrhos will learn its fate at a special awards ceremony on Monday, June 11 at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole.

Alumni and Development director Sarah Ritchie, said: “The arrival of a new Headmaster presented the opportunity to run a campaign with the objective to boost engagement across all areas of the community, increasing support and opportunities for pupils.

“The campaign centred around the theme of the “Rydal Penrhos Family”, and a busy year of initiatives designed to engage people of varying ages and interests began, with a clear message for the community to welcome Simon Smith to the family.”

The initiative included a programme of alumni reunions, parents’ association events, and networking opportunities for alumni, parents and members of the local community through the Rydal Penrhos Business Club.

Parents, alumni and friends sing weekly in the Rydal Penrhos Community Choir, and the whole community play together in a variety of sports teams.

The school website and social media channels were used to promote instances where someone or something had been supported by a member of the ‘#RPFamily’.

“As a result of the campaign, participation in fundraising appeals has more than doubled, and pupils are benefitting from increased careers support through our mentoring scheme,” added Mrs Ritchie.

“Most importantly, pupils know that they are part of a large, supportive family who believe in them, and will continue to do so long after they leave school.”

The Career Mentoring programme was also a prominent feature of the campaign, which saw Alumni with a particular area of expertise lend their support and guidance to Sixth Formers with an interest in their profession.

Anyone wishing to vote can do so at the following link: http://idpe.org.uk/#placeyourvotenow.