An unprecedented number of Year 6 students and their families flocked to Richmond School’s recent open evening. With a programme of activities for prospective students to try their hands at, they took every opportunity to immerse themselves in the wide range of subjects.
Grace Clement and Leo Barber welcomed a record number of students and their families to the event. Although they have only been in the school themselves for three weeks, the Year 7 students talked confidently and shared their experiences of transition from primary to secondary school and how much they are enjoying Richmond School and everything it has to offer. Grace said: “I have only just become part of this tight-knit community, and I will admit I was a bit nervous at first, but the second I stepped off my bus, I knew I was in the right place!” Leo and Grace were supported by Cora Aked and Will Mawer, Deputy Head Students, who spoke about the outstanding teaching and enrichment opportunities and their positive experiences in School and Sixth Form over the last six years.
Students visited all the subject areas and enjoyed experimenting in Science, trying out musical instruments, making crowns in History, playing netball and table-tennis and much more. They were particularly fascinated by a Van de Graff generator which creates static electricity through the body and they experienced how it made their hair stand on end! Everyone enjoyed visiting the Food Technology department where they sampled tasty pizza and biscuits cooked by the school’s students. Student Leaders from all Year groups led many of the activities, demonstrating tasks and then encouraging the younger pupils to have a go.
The school launched its new film, ‘Ready, Steady Richmond’ which presents the exceptional transition programme from primary school. It then goes on to show more about life at Richmond School, including its high-quality curriculum and extra-curricular offer, its work in the community and excellent facilities. It also highlights student leadership activities, exceptional careers support, the highly-supportive alumni network and thriving Sixth Form College. You can watch the film at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDVl8cy4ETw
A parent said: “Two Year 7 students showed us around the open evening. We wanted to let you know what a credit they are to themselves and your school. They were the loveliest girls so friendly and kind and they spent the evening walking around with us chatting and made us feel so welcome. We really enjoyed their company and they did themselves and the school proud so thank you very much. We had a great time looking around it was a great evening.”
The Jazz Band provided outstanding entertainment during the evening, with a toe-tapping playlist including the James Bond Theme, Justin Timberlake’s Can’t Stop the Feeling and Dave Brubeck’s Take Five. Students were then able to head to the Performing Arts department to find out about the host of musical ensembles and instrumental lessons, as well as the many Dance and Drama groups offered.
Jenna Potter, Headteacher at Richmond School and Sixth Form College said: “This year’s open evening was our busiest ever, so much so, we had to quickly add a third welcome talk to ensure nobody missed out. It was wonderful to observe the excited Year 6 students trying their hand at so many activities and confidently leading their families around the school – many of them have visited us for primary transition events so they weren’t daunted by our size and it already felt as though they were part of our Richmond School family.
“The evening had such a buzz and our Student Leaders did a fabulous job hosting so many of the taster activities. I was moved to hear Leo and Grace talk about their experiences. To hear them say that they “made the right choice coming to Richmond School” means so much and is testament to our students and the hard work of our dedicated staff.”
To apply for a Year 7 place at Richmond School in 2023 please visit https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/apply-place-primary-or-secondary-school or for any questions please email year6transition-rch@arete.uk