Having taken over as Chair of the Rossall Council in late May, it is a privilege to be writing this preface and to be commenting on the considerable impact that the School has in so many fundamental areas.
My links with the School go back to my earliest childhood and I am proud to be a 3-18 Rossallian. I also received such inspiration from the School during my education here that it led to me pursuing a career in education myself.
Since joining Council late last year and taking over as Chair, I have been struck by the ambition and innovation so evident at the School. Great credit is due to the Headmaster, Jeremy Quartermain, and his talented staff: they are the people doing the hard work and, above all, inspiring the students under their charge. In particular I applaud the determination to keep improving and innovating - this is indeed a golden thread that runs through the School’s life.
Rossall plays a far greater role within the local community than it has done before. This is partly because of the high numbers of day students from within the locality, but primarily because the current school leadership sees the School’s involvement with the local community as an essential part of its identity and of its students’ education for life.
The challenges facing the independent sector now are well documented. In addition, we face the added responsibility of serving as custodians of a spectacular but complex architectural heritage. My colleagues on Council are committed to investing in the fabric of our historical buildings whilst continuing to ensure that our pupils benefit from state-of-the-art facilities well into the future.
contribution made by members of our community is felt in this
This report highlights and celebrates the impact that Rossall makes across so many different areas during the last year. From stunning academic results to local partnerships, from our extraordinarily generous ‘Changing Lives’ bursary programme to the success of our signature programmes in sports and the performing arts; the value of the contribution made by members of our community is felt in this area of Lancashire and far beyond.
We are immeasurably proud of our position as one of the UK’s leading independent schools and, increasingly, we are a powerful voice within the sector. This report demonstrates the very real difference that we are making not just within School but within the wider community here on the Fylde.
Keith Budge, Chair of Council
Students in the School (September 2024)
Staff members in the School (September 2024)
Introducing Rossall School
SHAPING LIVES, INSPIRING EXCELLENCE
It is our mission to inspire young people to develop a life-long love of learning within a pastorally nurturing, culturally diverse and intellectually exciting community.
VISION
Rossall School is a Charity, the Objectives of which are “to provide, at a moderate cost, for the sons and daughters of clergymen and others, without limit of age, a classical, mathematical and general education of the highest class.” (1844)
Rossall is one of the leading independent schools in the north of England. Initially founded in 1844 to educate the sons of clergymen, the School rapidly acquired a reputation for academic and sporting excellence. One hundred and eighty years later, we pride ourselves on the outstanding quality of our pastoral care and our school’s
diverse and inclusive nature. We are a kind, compassionate and caring community providing a supportive context within which young people are inspired to become the best possible versions of themselves. Rossall’s distinctive ‘knowable’ character is attributable to our clearly defined aims and values.
The School is committed to inspiring young people to develop their potential by providing a first-class educational experience in an intellectually exciting and culturally diverse community.
SHAPING LIVES, INSPIRING EXCELLENCE
AIMS AND VALUES
INSPIRING INTELLECTUAL EXCITEMENT AND ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Rossall School inspires a lifelong love of learning through the outstanding quality of teaching and learning that it provides for young people. Children are encouraged to develop their intellectual interests beyond the confines of the formal curriculum, and they are challenged to engage critically with the multitude of opportunities that the School provides to develop skills,
knowledge, understanding and empathy. Children are encouraged to become self-motivated, independent learners with an intrinsic desire to explore both the physical and metaphysical aspects of their existence. We are an open-minded community receptive to new ideas. Children are encouraged to share their ideas and learn through collaboration and debate.
DEVELOPING COMPASSIONATE AND CARING YOUNG PEOPLE
Rossall School’s unique educational offering provides a perfect context within which young people may acquire the emotional knowledge and interpersonal skills necessary to live happy and purposeful lives. The school’s inclusive and progressive ethos is complemented by the outstanding quality of our school community, which nurtures resilience and
ENSURING PUBLIC BENEFIT
Rossall School is an internationallyminded community yet resolutely committed to the concept of localism. We recognise our extraordinary potential to serve the local communities of the Fylde Coast and we are committed to sharing our resources and skills with the people of Fleetwood and Blackpool.
develops maturity.Young people leave Rossall with the confidence and character necessary to pursue their personal dreams and fulfil their professional aspirations. Above all, the School endeavours to develop caring and compassionate young people, and we provide an extraordinary diversity of opportunities for young people to develop these attributes.
The School is committed to ensuring that the lives of local people and communities continue to be enriched by our presence. We are an integral part of the rich fabric of this area of the North West and we actively embrace our social responsibility to serve others.
ENGENDERING CULTURAL AWARENESS AND ARTISTIC CREATIVITY
Rossall School is committed to allowing children to explore and develop their creative sensibilities through the outstanding quality of its performing arts and visual arts provision. Children
are encouraged to develop their creative skills and aesthetic sensibilities to appreciate, comprehend and contribute to the world of infinite beauty that lies beyond the certainties of everyday life.
PROMOTING SPORTING EXCELLENCE
Rossall is justifiably proud of its illustrious sporting history and recognises the many health and social benefits to be derived from regular exercise and participation in team sports. Striving for excellence within a sporting context helps young people develop
AN EDUCATION FOR THE FUTURE
Rossall is committed to ensuring that it prepares young people for an uncertain future by developing transferable skills within a technologically enriched and well-resourced environment. A Rossall education is outward-facing and encourages children to become
transferable character attributes such as resilience, self-discipline and leadership skills. Alongside a lifelong love of learning, we provide an education that will result in an enduring love of sports for many young people.
politically literate and engage with themes of contemporary relevance, such as environmentalism, social justice, and humanitarianism. Our responsibility to future generations is to create a ‘green’ and sustainable community.
We are an internationally-minded School and children from this area of Lancashire benefit enormously from living and learning alongside children from an extraordinarily diverse array of backgrounds. A GLOBAL EDUCATION - A HUMANITARIAN COMMUNITY
We are a truly global community and our students are drawn from almost fifty different countries. In 2022, we were joined by a number of students from Odessa, Mariupol, Kharkiv and Kyiv. We are delighted to continue providing a safe haven for a growing number of Ukrainian children and, in some cases, their families. The impulse to reach out to those in need is a common thread running through the School’s
history and Rossall’s contribution to the Kindertransport is an important and well documented part of our cultural heritage.
“Young people leave Rossall with the confidence and strength of character necessary to pursue their personal dreams and fulfil their professional aspirations. “
Student Nationalities
Our Stakeholders
Rossall has a diverse range of stakeholders, all of whom have a vitally important role to play in terms of ensuring that Rossall thrives and successfully fulfils its charitable aims and objectives.
Schools such as Rossall are more than the number of pupils on roll at any moment. Our deep roots on the Fylde are also reflected in our links and partnerships with local charities, schools and businesses. These close relationships are predicated upon shared values and a commitment to improving people’s lives on the Fylde. Rossall is essential to Fleetwood and Wyre’s local economy. Given the socio-economic context of the locality, we feel an enormous responsibility to our employees, their families and the many businesses directly and indirectly dependent upon the success of the School.
GOVERNORS EMPLOYEES
Pupil numbers and fee discounts 2023/24
Not including children coming to the nursery, there were 485 school age students from FY postcodes educated at Rossall.
In addition, there were a further 106 children who attended our nursery whose families have FY postcodes.
Bursaries, scholarships and other discounts totalled almost £3m for the year. Within this figure, the amount awarded to children with an FY postcode was £1.42m
Of 485 pupils, 272 (56%) had a discounted fee and the average discount for those pupils was 40%
261 of these children came from the immediate locality (FY7 and FY5Fleetwood and Thornton-Cleveleys).
148 of these children (57%) had a discount and the average discount for those pupils was 45%
school age students from FY postcodes educated at Rossall
485 £3m
per year in bursaries, scholarships and other discounts
308 90%
7 jobs in the supply chain (local indirect jobs) jobs supported by staff spending and local suppliers staff supported by Rossall School 29 344 jobs
106
children in Rossall nurser y whose families have FY postcodes
£1.42m
awarded to children with an FY postcode
EMPLOYMENT
As of September 2024, with 308 permanent members of staff, Rossall School directly employs 308 people and is one of Fleetwood’s largest employers.
Nearly 90% of Rossall’s employees have an FY postcode and 196 employees (64% of the workforce) live in Fleetwood or Thornton-Cleveleys.
Based on a local impact assessment carried out in October 2024 against the national survey conducted by ISC, the total number of jobs in our local authority (Wyre) supported by the school’s activities in 2023-24 was:
7 jobs in the supply chain (local indirect jobs).
29 jobs supported by the spending of staff and local suppliers staff (local induced jobs).
Therefore together with the School employees, the total number of local jobs supported by the School is 344 permanent members of staff of which nearly have an FY postcode
Academic Highlights 2023-2024
This year has been full of successes within the academic sphere. Rossall students have excelled in Science Olympiads, regional debating competitions and national essay writing competitions. The intellectual and cultural life of the School has been enhanced by an impressive programme of guest speakers who have addressed students on topics ranging from adoption, to space exploration, and from artificial intelligence to resilience.
Providing rigorous challenges beyond the confines of the curriculum and inspiring children to think critically, reflectively and creatively has been a key focus of this academic year. The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) have both provided superb vehicles for the development of independent research interests and the IB Learner Profile continues to be successfully embedded in all areas of School life.
The resurgent careers programme helps to prepare Sixth Formers for life beyond School and our outstanding outcomes in terms of the post-Sixth Form destinations achieved by our students is in no small part attributable to the vitality of this programme. We have seen a record
EXAM RESULTS
POSITIVE VALUE ADDED
number of students heading to Russell Group or Top 20 universities (82% of all UK places fell into this category) and our students continue to be more ambitious and aspirational year on year.
The success of the academic side of School life is not to be measured in academic results alone. It is reflected in our students’ high level of political literacy and their commitment towards advancing the cause of social justice and environmentalism. The burgeoning number of student-led academic societies such as the Farrell Society is testament to the very real intellectual ambition of our students. Academic Symposia continue to thrive with over 80 students attending the most recent session, entitled: ‘Pushing the Boundaries’. Our Model United Nations team competed against schools around the county and are in the process of planning to host a competition.
Perhaps most significantly, was the inaugural TEDx Youth Conference, hosted in December: sixteen speakers from across all year-groups giving speeches on the theme of ‘Individuality’. These are all accessible on Youtube and the plan is to host a conference every other year.
We work very hard to ensure that our innovative approach to teaching and learning prepares our children well for the rigours of public examinations. We are an unashamedly inclusive school and proud of all Rossallians’ achievements. When measured against other independent schools, CEM data indicates that we are successful in adding value significantly above and beyond the expectations of schools within the sector.
Indeed, this commitment to academic excellence continues to yield outstanding outcomes for our students.
In 2024:
Our International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme students achieved an average diploma score of 34 points (35 points - three-year average) which places Rossall significantly above the world average of 30.3 points.
Approximately 44% of all A level / BTEC entries were awarded an A* or A grade.
Over 80% of our BTEC entrants achieved a Distinction (the equivalent of an A*/A grade at A level).
39% of GCSE entries achieved grades 7-9. This is almost 80% higher than the regional average for the North West and much higher than the national average.
These results are remarkable given that:
• Over 50% of our A-level and IBDP students are taking qualifications in their second or even their third language.
• The School has almost 100 pupils on the SEND register. The fantastic outcomes for children at Rossall with identifiable SEND needs are a source of immense pride.
In terms of UCAS points, almost 60% of the Upper Sixth Form cohort at Rossall come away from their examinations with the equivalent of AAB (at A level) or above.
>1/3 of all A level entries were awarded an A* or A grade.
39%
>80% of our BTEC entrants achieved a Distinction (the equivalent of an A*/A grade at A level). of GCSE entries achieved grades 7-9 (almost double the national average).
“The fantastic outcomes for children at Rossall with identifiable SEND needs are a source of immense pride.”
Leavers’ Destinations
HIGHER EDUCATION DESTINATIONS OF OUR 2024 LEAVERS
Every year Rossall students progress to some of the most prestigious university courses here within the UK. This year is no exception and, this fall, Rossall students will begin undergraduate studies at Cambridge, Manchester, Warwick, Durham, Edinburgh, Leeds, UCL, King’s College London, Loughborough, Sheffield, Queen’s Belfast and countless other Top20/Russell Group universities. They will study an extraordinarily diverse range of subjects including Medicine, Architecture, Biochemistry, Mathematics, Engineering, Music, Physics, Psychology, Graphic Design, Economics, English Literature and Fashion. In addition, a growing number of our students are moving on to study at some of the most academically sought after destinations worldwide including Australia, USA, Spain, Japan and the Netherlands. Three of our leavers were successful with conservatoire applications and aim to enter the world of professional music.
This year, 82% of those remaining in the UK will move to a Russell Group or Top 20 university.
Beth Strutton and Grace Pilling have been awarded significant scholarships to America for football, whilst Ryan Gavin and Teddy Crooke are also ‘State-side’ playing Golf. Another five students have signed professional contracts with clubs around the world, including in Switzerland and Mexico. Emma Siddall has signed her first professional contract with Burnley FC.
Finally, two of our local students are taking up prestigious Degree Apprenticeships with BAE Systems and Fujitsu.
“82% of those remaining in the UK will move to a Russell Group or Top 20 university.”
UK Destinations
Buckinghamshire New University
Cambridge University
Durham University
Goldsmiths, University of London
Istituto Marangoni, London
Kingston University
Lancaster University
Leeds Art University
Liverpool Hope University
London Film Academy
London Metropolitan University
Loughborough University
Manchester Metropolitan University
Myerscough (University Centre)
Northumbria University
Nottingham Trent University
Nottingham University
Oxford Brookes University
Queen’s University Belfast
Reading University
Royal Holloway University of London
Southampton University
Sussex University
Swansea University
The University of Edinburgh
UA92
University College London
University of Birmingham
University of Central Lancashire
University of Exeter
University of Hull
University of Leeds
University of Liverpool
University of Manchester
University of Oxford
University of the Arts London University of Westminster
University of York
Warwick University
International Destinations
Amsterdam, Netherlands
City University of Hong Kong
Financial Academy, Moscow, Russia
Fordham, USA
Frankfurt Business School, Germany
Georgia Southwestern State, USA
IE University, Spain
Link University, Italy
Monash, Australia
Purdue, USA
Ritsumeikan, Japan
Schweizerische Hotelfachschule, Switzerland
Saint Leo University, USA
Temple University, USA
University of California, Santa
Barbara, USA
University of Malta
Wirtschaftsuniversität, Austria
Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, Netherlands
Full List of Leavers Destinations
Institution Subject
Augustana College, Illinois Computer Science Business
Bath Accounting and Finance Mathematics
Birmingham Liberal Arts and Sciences
Bradford Physiotherapy
Cambridge Classics
Cardiff Financial Mathematics
Cesar Ritz College, Switzerland Hospitality
City University Mechanical and Design Engineering Business Management
Coventry Midwifery
Durham English Literature (2) Liberal Arts Sport and Exercise Science
Edge Golf College, Portugal Sport Management
Edinburgh Archaeology and Social Anthropology
Erasmus, Netherlands Economics and Business Economics
ESCP Business School Management
Frankfurt School of Finance and Management, Germany Business Administration
Georgia State, Georgia Business
Glasgow Science and Engineering
Goshen College, Indiana Exercise Science
IE University, Madrid International Relations Business Management
IMC Krems, Austria Business Administration
Imperial College London Physics
Kaplan International College Business, Law and Social Sciences
Keele Pharmaceutical Science Biochemistry
King’s College London Accounting and Finance
Knox College, Illinois Sport/Business
Lancaster Finance Advertising and Marketing Ecibinucs and Finance
Leeds Business Management with Marketing
Leeds Beckett Sports Business Management
Leiden University, Netherlands International Psychology
Lincoln Memorial, Tennessee Business
Liverpool English Literature Environmental Science Bioveterinary Science
Liverpool John Moores Nursing (adults)
Loughborough Sport and Exercise Science
Louisiana Monroe, Louisiana Business
Manchester Medicine Biosciences
Manchester Met Biology Sports Business Management
Newcastle Mathematics with Finance Northumbria Sport, Exercise and Nutrition
Nottingham Financial Mathematics Architectural Environment Engineering History
Nuremberg Institute of Technology, Germany Computer Science
Plymouth Marjon Outdoor Adventure Education
Queen Mary Computer Systems Engineering (2)
Queen’s Belfast Business and Marketing
Reims University, France International Relations
Rose Bruford American Theatre Arts
Royal Northern College of Music Music
Royal Veterinary College Animal Biology, Behaviour, Welfare and Ethics
Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama Music
South Carolina Aiken, South Carolina Business and Management
Sussex Zoology
Texas Tech, Texas Business
Trinity Laban Popular Music
UA92 Sport Management (2)
UIC Barcelona Business Administration
UMCH Hamburg, Germany Medicine
University of California, Santa Barbara Psychology
University of East Anglia Biological Sciences
University of Malta International Relations with Spanish
Vienna, Austria Economics and Law
Winnipeg, Canada Psychology
Warwick Mathematics Biological Sciences Philosophy with Psychology
Westminster European Legal Studies International Relations
WHU International Business Administration
York Business and Management
Molecular Cell Biology
Mathematics Marketing
Degree Apprenticeships 2022-24
Co-curricular
The rich diversity of co-curricular activities at Rossall is one of the defining hallmarks of our educational offering. At Rossall, children discover their interests and develop their aptitudes. Our co-curricular programme is intentionally designed to support lifelong learning.
With over 70 different activities on offer in more than 170 activity slots, the programme is unique in terms of its ambition and scope.
Rossall has an enviable reputation as one of the UK’s leading schools for sports. Success on the pitch and elite performance matters to us but so too does the provision of an inclusive programme that provides an abundance of opportunities for participation. A lifelong love of learning and a sense of adventure is fostered by a programme that offers considerable opportunity for the development of character.
Sports Success - 2023/24
32
pupils and Old Rossallians have played representative spor t for t heir countri es in t he last 10 years
At Rossall, we balance inclusivity with a commitment to elite performance. Enjoyment is a key factor and the very high participation levels reflect a vibrant programme within which students compete in a diverse range of sports. We believe that sports should be accessible to all children, regardless of background or ability.
Our sports programme promotes healthy living and the development of physical literacy. It provides opportunities for young people to develop self-confidence, resilience, and teamwork skills. Sports is an important part of the social fabric of our School community and sits at the heart of our co-curricular provision.
Striving for excellence inspires young people to develop self-discipline. The pursuit of elite performance demands both courage and determination. These qualities are to be found in abundance amongst our students and they are virtues that they take with them into many other areas of school life including the academic and creative spheres.
28
current Rossallians have represented their country whilst studying.
• Thirty-two pupils and Old Rossallians have played representative sport for their countries during the last ten years.
• Since 2017, no fewer than twenty-eight current Rossallians have represented their country whilst studying.
• Our pioneering girls’ football programme has played an important role in the development of the game at school level. Our U18 team were national champions (ISFA) in both 2022 and 2023 and national finalists in 2024.
• Rossall’s golf teams have regularly been ranked number one in the country (at both senior and junior levels).
• Rossall teams reached five national sporting finals during the academic year 2022/23.
• In 2023/24, over 70% of pupils across the Senior and Preparatory School participated in competitive inter-school fixtures.
• During the same period, we are particularly proud that 98% of girls in Years 7 & 8 have competed in inter-school competitive fixtures.
• In January 2024, we signed a partnership agreement with Manchester City Football Club which saw the launch of the first programme of its kind in the country.
Families choose Rossall School because of our ambition, quality and the variety of opportunities available . They choose us because of the warmth and richness of our community and the School’s strong ethos and values. Above all else, they tell us that they choose us because we develop young people with the confidence and desire to go out into the world and achieve good things. Evident from our many amazing alumni, Rossall is hugely successful at nurturing these character attributes and equipping young people with the skills, resilience and emotional intelligence necessary to make a resounding success of their lives.
KEY EVENTS THIS YEAR
• Drama performances (Anything Goes and Mary Poppins)
• Weekly lunchtime concerts
• MUN Conference
• Inaugural TEDx Conference
• Debating Club
• House music
• Duke of Edinburgh expeditions
• CCF Summer Camp
• Summer Arts Festival
• 850 sporting fixtures
• Development of Broadway Academy
- this year’s highlight being a full scale production of Frozen with a cast of over 40 children
• Development of International Piano Academy
• Girls U18 ISFA Final
• Christmas Fair and Nine Lessons and Carols
• Sunday Evensongs
• Concerts and recital in the local community
• Pride Week
• Launch of Christian Union Society
• Black History Month
• Launch of AfroCaribbean Society
• International Day
• House Residentals
• Ghana Expedition
• Academic Enrichment Trip to Edinburgh
• Trip to the Battlefields of the Western Front
• Classics and Art trips to London
Weekend Programme
Weekends at Rossall are incredibly busy, with the majority of day and boarding pupils involved with some form of activity on Saturdays and/ or Sundays. Competitive home and away fixtures against other schools and sports academies are traditionally played on Saturdays. The Broadway Academy (our thriving performing arts academy) operates for those children who enjoy dance, singing, acting and drama.Various departments such as Art and Design Technology are open to those
wishing to focus on completing or enhancing their portfolios. House residential trips are a key event in the life of our boarding community.
Our boarders enjoy town leave every Saturday afternoon. Every Sunday, during term time, we run a varied programme of trips and visits. In 2023, cultural trips to Manchester, Liverpool, Chester and Edinburgh ran alongside fun activities such as paintballing, bowling and walking in the Lake District and Trough of Bowland. Approximately once
a month, the weekend concludes with a service of choral evensong in Chapel. This service is led by our chaplain and our fantastic chapel choir, which is steeped in the Anglican choral tradition.
In September 2024, this programme was expanded and relaunched with the introduction of residential trips to London, Edinburgh and Belfast. The introduction of Rossall Adventure will see an increasing number of outdoor adventure opportunities offered during weekends.
Public Benefit — Scholarships and Bursaries
At Rossall, we recognise our responsibility to serve our local community. All available indices highlight the extremely high levels of deprivation experienced by young people on the Fylde.
• The English Indices of Deprivation (2019) rank Blackpool unitary authority as the most deprived lower-tier local authority in terms of income, health and percentage of people unemployed. Childhood deprivation is a particular problem.
• Eight of the ten poorest neighbourhoods (LSOAs) in England are located in Blackpool.
• 20% of children in Fleetwood live in poverty.
• 36% of people living in Fleetwood have no qualifications.
• People in Blackpool have the lowest life expectancy (from birth) of any local authority in the UK.
Rossall is an integral part of the fabric of the local community. This is reflected in our commitment to enabling as many local children as possible to attend the School. It is reflected in our desire to serve the local community through partnerships and charitable initiatives, and by sharing our resources with those beyond school.
From September 2024, we have committed to spending £3.1m on means-tested bursaries, scholarships and other discounts. This represents 15% of gross income.
Within these figures:
• 44% of local pupils will receive some form of financial support
• 13 pupils are in receipt of 100% scholarships
• A further 9 Ukrainian students are currently studying at Rossall on 100% bursaries
In terms of financial support, as a percentage of fee income, Rossall currently provides of the average for UK independent schools 125%
The extraordinarily high level of means-tested bursaries at Rossall is reflective of the charitable purpose of the School. We are not asset rich and nor do we benefit from significant levels of endowment funds. Furthermore, we produce no discernible surplus. Our priority is not resources and facilities; we invest in people. Our outstanding teachers and support staff are our greatest asset.
Generations of Rossallians have benefitted from transformational scholarships and bursaries. The Foundation’s Changing Lives project aims to continue to raise funds over the course of the next decade in order to ensure that a growing number of local children are able to attend Rossall regardless of parental income. There are a number of charitable trusts that support scholars at Rossall and these include the Globe, Trapnell, Jackson and Centenary funds.
The Trapnell Scholarship Established
Roger Leigh Trapnell was born in December 1908 and at the age of eleven gained a scholarship to attend Rossall School as a boarder. During his seven years at the school he excelled both academically and on the games field and on completion of his time at the school he was awarded a scholarship to read Mathematics at King’s College, Cambridge.
During his distinguished business career, Leigh always attributed his success to the start he had received at Rossall and remained a strong supporter of the school, for many years being a Member of the School Council (school
governor). However, in later life he became very concerned with what he perceived to be a lack of emphasis on mathematics and the sciences. This led to him establishing the Trapnell Fund in 1985.
Over 70 pupils have benefited from Leigh’s generous endowment and the vast majority have progressed to scientific or mathematical courses at leading UK universities including Oxford and Cambridge. Other Trapnell Scholars have left Rossall to read veterinary science or medicine at university. This year two Trapnell scholars have headed to university to study medicine.
Over
pupils awarded 1985
The Rossall Foundation
The Rossall Foundation was founded in 2005 with the sole purpose of supporting the School and helping to ensure that it flourishes. Rossall has a fine tradition of benefaction and the Foundation has been able to play its part in ensuring that the excellent education Rossall has provided over the years will continue to benefit future generations.
The Foundation continues the tradition of giving back to the School so that the School and its pupils can continue to prosper, flourish and enjoy the opportunities afforded by a Rossall education.
Over the past few years, educational priorities have been important when
looking at where to utilise the funds best. As a result, the Foundation has helped to provide iPads for the Junior School, science equipment for the wider School and also contribute towards the refurbishment of two science laboratories. In 2024, the Foundation supported the purchase of instruments for our Prep School, enabling each child to learn an instrument.Various instruments have been purchased, allowing students to discover and nurture their musical abilities.
One of the key deliverables in 2024 has been the Chapel Organ project. The Chapel Organ is a historic part of the fabric of the Chapel. The organ
had, unfortunately, fallen into a state of disrepair over the years and it was in desperate need of a major overhaul. Due to generous donations, we have restored our beloved Harrison and Harrison Organ to its former glory. The work was completed in 2024 and will enable the organ to serve not only the school, but the local community. The chapel hosts regular public services and welcomes visitors and students from other schools.
The Foundation’s Changing Lives project aims to continue to raise funds to ensure that a growing number of local children can attend Rossall regardless of parental income.
The Heritage Project - 2024
Our most iconic buildings date from the mid-nineteenth century. The Sumner Library, Big School and the Chapel of St John the Baptist are all listed buildings.
20% of Fleetwood’s listed buildings are contained within the School campus.
Time has not stood still, and these buildings are now in urgent need of repair. Wind, rain and salt have affected the physical fabric of our listed buildings. It is the case that crumbling masonry, corroded metal, and leaking pipes threaten the very existence of our architectural heritage. Safeguarding the future of these buildings will cost over £1.5 million and the Rossall Foundation is committed to working with the School to raise the funds necessary to ensure that these buildings are preserved for future generations.
The project’s first stage was to safeguard the structural fabric of these buildings. Work took place between July 2024 and October 2024 to repair Big School roof.
Each tile has been assessed and replaced or relaid to ensure the building is now watertight and will withstand the test of time. None of this work would have been possible without the enormous generosity of those who have donated to the Foundation’s Future Heritage Project.
Due to a generous legacy donation, the Rossall Foundation is now in a position to refurbish the Chapel’s east window. Work is due to commence in 2025, and this will ensure that this magnificent window is preserved and cherished for years to come.
Following the safeguarding of the fabric of the buildings, further future development plans will ensure that the Sumner Library becomes a modern study space within which children can work together collaboratively. Similarly, we intend to transform Big School into a flexible performance space capable of supporting our rapidly expanding performing arts programme.
The Rossall Rose Society
The foundation of the society responds to and builds upon the extraordinary goodwill and energy within our community. It recognises the desire of Rossallian families to become participatory members of a community that extends beyond school life. It is reflective of our desire to nurture relationships with Rossallians in such a way that they endure for a lifetime. Furthermore, we work to ensure that those connected with Rossall feel that sense of belonging treasured by so many of us.
Community
Our community consists of pupils past and present. It also includes current and former members of staff and members of Council. Parents and grandparents of pupils or former pupils constitute a very important dimension of our community. It is a community that extends across the Fylde and includes local businesses, charitable organisations and partners. It is also a global community.
Friendship
The Rossall Rose Society provides opportunities for Rossallians to socialise here at School. It organises events for new parents and plays an important role in welcoming new families into our community. Balls, lunches, coffee mornings, trips to sporting fixtures, carol services and much more provide an opportunity to enjoy existing friendships and make new connections.
“Over the last two and a half years, Rossallians have raised over £65,000 for good causes”
Charity
Over the last two and a half years, Rossallians have raised over £65,000 for good causes. The charitable aspect of the Rossall Rose Society is dedicated towards helping the School bring to fruition specific projects that serve to enrich the lives of our children both here in School and within the local community. Fundraising focuses upon providing for non-academic items of capital expenditure recently included major items of staging, backdrops, lighting equipment and sound systems for school public events and performing arts well in excess of £15,000.
• In celebration of the 180th Anniversary of Rossall School, Rossall Rose in conjunction with the Rossall Foundation hosted a ball in the iconic Dining Hall, welcoming members of the Rossall community, families and friends. The evening realised the sum of £25,000 which will be used to support the continuing development of the Heritage Project of the school and the operation of the Rossall Rose Society.
• The annual Christmas Market organised by the Rossall Rose Society regularly supports Home Start, Trinity Hospice & Brian House, NorthWest Air Ambulance, Wildlife Trust, Homeless Hounds and Donna’s Dream House.
• Over the last two years, the Rossall Rose Society has raised and donated over £1000 in support of the nationwide Macmillan Coffee Morning appeal.
• In 2023, the society gave a cheque for £8,000 to the Boathouse Youth - a charity which works with some of the most disadvantaged children in Blackpool.
• The Rossall Rose Society was also instrumental in the establishment of Rossall’s Ukrainian Hub which, until recently, received partnership funding from Lancashire County Council.
• Members of the society refurbished a house on the School site which now accommodates a family from Kharkiv in eastern Ukraine.
• The Rossall Rose Society has raised significant funds to support a number of individual students from Ukraine and Afghanistan who are now studying at Rossall.
The School’s Ukrainian Project has been profiled in the media (both regionally and nationally).
“Rossall School is an internationally-minded community but yet resolutely committed to the concept of localism.”
Outreach
The Rossall Rose Society is at the heart of our relationships with local charitable organisations such as the Fleetwood Town Community Trust. We work to build strong relationships within both the commercial and charitable sectors to ensure that Rossall enhances the lives of as many people as possible on the Fylde Coast.
Public Outreach
Rossall School is an internationallyminded community but yet resolutely committed to the concept of localism. We recognise our extraordinary potential to serve the local communities of the Fylde Coast and we are committed to sharing our resources and skills with the people of Fleetwood and Blackpool. The School is committed to ensuring that our presence enriches the lives of local people and communities.
The School continues to put great effort into building teaching links with local schools and other feeder schools.
Membership includes
Past pupils, current parents, past parents, future parents, current and former members of Council, current and former members of staff and all those associated with Rossall and desiring to remain active members of our community.
Annually, local schools are invited to various educational and sporting events. Schools receive visits from staff and pupils from Rossall, and a growing number of children in Fylde and Wyre have visited Rossall in an educational capacity.
The School is proud of its heritage and the part it plays in the fascinating history of Fleetwood. Supporting our local community remains a priority for the School in terms of widening access through our bursary policy and formal and informal partnerships.
The Broadway Academy was launched in September 2022 and provides local children with access to first class coaching in the Performing Arts. It operates on Saturday mornings and it has rapidly grown in numbers, drawing children from a diverse variety of local primary schools, including our Prep School.
Music, Dance and Drama workshops are age specific with groups working towards termly showcase performances.
June 2024 saw the first full scale Broadway Academy production take place in Big School. With a cast of over 40 children aged 7 - 18, Frozen the Musical was a great success. The cast performed to a sold out audience which included parents, siblings as well as members of the local community.
Lawrence House Astronomy and Space Science Centre
Rossall is incredibly fortunate to have its own Astronomy and Space Centre, complete with planetarium, and Resident Astronomer, Dr Nick Lister. We offer the facility to local primary schools and voluntary groups with visits facilitated by Dr Lister and to provide GCSE tuition in Astronomy to local senior schools.
Sharing Facilities with the Local Community
Throughout the year, we offer the use of our facilities to local schools and sports groups and this is usually free of charge. This includes use of our Sports Centre, Astroturf, MUGA and swimming pool. We also host activity afternoons for local primary schools ranging from taster sessions in various sports, use of the Rossall Kitchens and academic enrichment activities such as Coding Days.
Rossall Chaplaincy
The Chapel offers a programme of religious worship, including weekly Evensong and Compline, Remembrance and Carol services, led by the Chaplaincy team. The Chapel is also used by a number of local primary schools for religious worship and this includes Christmas and Easter services.
Shortlisted in Independent School of the Year Award 2024
(International Experience)
Ukraine
In response to the invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent humanitarian crisis, Rossall initiated several programmes of support for Ukrainian refugees moving to the Fylde. These initiatives included refurbishing a house on the school site for use by a Ukrainian family. This project saw an outpouring of support from the wider school community, with donations of time, materials and household essentials.
In addition, boarding and day places were secured for a further eight children from Ukraine. This was made possible through individual donations and the extensive fundraising efforts of the whole school community. These 100% bursaries and scholarships have proved vitally important to these children and their families.
Until the end of 2023, the school ran a Ukrainian Hub, which helped support the local Ukrainian community.
Da Vinci Academy
Rossall School’s Da Vinci Academy was founded in September 2019 and provides enrichment activities in science (including Astronomy), mathematics, computing and the study of Classics for local primary school children. This Saturday morning school has proved enormously popular and over eighty local children have attended lessons on Saturdays. Our teachers volunteer their time in order to ensure that we inspire a new generation of young scientists, mathematicians and polymaths here on the Fylde.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
In March 2023, we welcomed an ISI pilot inspection visit. In advance of the launch of the new framework, the team sought to explore issues related to student voice and EDI. We received no formal report but the summative feedback at the conclusion of the visit was tremendously positive. The inspection team was delighted with the diverse and inclusive nature of our community. They felt that the values that we embrace were not just taught but actively lived in our day-to-day lives.
How do we know what our students think?
Student Council
Membership is drawn from all year groups (Years 7-13). Students are encouraged to think about how we might improve all aspects of school provision and the pupils’ lived school experience. Issues raised and addressed in 2023/24 included:
• a request for bikesheds for pupils cycling to school
• the formation of a photography club
• year group passes to control lunchtime queues
• more clearly designated play areas at lunchtime
• improved bathroom facilities in the Farrell building
• greater number of options for lunch on Fridays
• reintroduction of computer science at GCSE
• better heating in Chapel
• more energy efficiency around the School
• outdoor study environment for the Sixth Form
• provision of more opportunities for older pupils to coach younger children (sports etc.)
On occasions, the Council subdivides into specific year groups and this allows for more nuanced and age-appropriate discussions. From September 2024, further pupil voice groups have been introduced that meet regularly to discuss issues such as pupil welfare, curriculum development, equality and diversity as well as the School’s IT provision, security and use of artificial intelligence.
Boarding Committee
The Boarding Committee is tremendously important. Student feedback helps to inform future weekend activities and trips/ visits. It is also a forum within which general concerns about the quality of facilities may be addressed. Other issues, such as perceived differences between routines or the nature of the provision within different houses is also brought forward for consideration.
Food Committee
This committee meets with the Head of Catering once every half term. Menus for the forthcoming weeks are discussed and any issues relating to the overall provision are explored. This group has requested greater diversity and themed days/ evenings to celebrate the diverse culinary tastes that exist within our community.
International Society
This group meets weekly during the activities program. They are very much involved in the planning of International Week. This year saw the second International Day which was an enormous success. Students from around the world set up display stands and wore national costumes. They danced, sang, shared delicious food from their countries and celebrated one another’s cultural heritage
LGBTQ+ Society
Membership is open to all. Its primary focus is to raise awareness of lesbian, gay and transgender issues and to ensure that the School is a welcoming community for all. During Pride Month, members organise a number of events. In 2024, this included holding a concert of music composed by LGBTQ+ composers. Flags and posters around School also celebrate diversity.
Monitors Meetings
Director of Sixth Form, Nick Crombie, meets with the Senior Monitors every week to discuss issues as they arise. The monitors share with us any concerns that they may have. Meetings cover a whole host of topics and the monitors are very good at proposing solutions. The Headmaster meets regularly with the School Captains team to discuss all aspects of school life.
Progress made in 2023/24
• Black History Month has assumed much greater prominence with an increasing number of cultural events planned and delivered entirely by pupils
• LGBTQ+ group launched in September 2022 each year organises Pride Week events in June that celebrate the achievements and cultural influence of members of the national and global LGBTQ+ community
• Student voice opportunities extended and now include a termly timetabled Pupil Welfare committee and an Equality and Diversity committee
• Assemblies, often delivered by pupils, have covered topics such as Apartheid, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Holocaust. (Holocaust Memorial Day is a significant moment in the School’s calendar), the significance of Ramadan and the important work of local charities such as Brian House Children’s Hospice.
• Uniform and Appearance Policy reviewed and adjusted annually to ensure greater gender inclusivity and cultural sensitivity
• Afro-Caribbean Society established by Sixth Formers
Wellbeing
The Health and Wellbeing team consists of a Director of Wellbeing working in conjunction with our Head of Health and nurses, based at the Medical Centre. We are fortunate that this team includes a dedicated mental health nurse. The Wellbeing program has a remit for all areas of pupil wellbeing including PSHE education. The program combines pupil voice with student Wellbeing Ambassadors, monthly Rossall wellbeing programs and dedicated PSHE dropdown days to delve more deeply into pertinent wellbeing issues, supported by external speakers.Vertical (houses) and horizontal (year group) support structures are in place and tutors meet with their tutees at least once a dayusually twice. Finally, staff wellbeing is supported by staff surveys, the Staff Welfare Committee, the staff welfare HR HUB, and events throughout the year to aid staff in finding balance at work.
Academic
Pupil attitudinal surveys completed in a number of departments, are used to inform department development plans. These are discussed in department meetings.
Pupils also contribute to the construction and review of the curriculum through online surveys and the Pupil Curriculum Development committee. Most recently the committee was instrumental in the construction and design of the Rossall INSPIRE programme, re-introduction of Sixth Form PSHE lessons and the introduction of Computing lessons.
Appointment of staff
Pupils interview all candidates for senior posts within the School. We almost always solicit feedback from them and their observations tend to be very astute.
Rossall’s Commitment to EDI is embedded in our Mission Statement and attendant policies - most notably in the following:
• Relationships and Sex Education Policy
• Code of Conduct for Staff
• Admissions Policy
• Bereavement Policy
• British Values Policy
• Accessibility Plan
• Behaviour Policy
• Equality, Diversity for Staff and Students Policy
• PSHE Policy
• Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development Policy
• Pay Policy
• Dignity at Work Policy
• Separated Parents Policy
• Visiting Speakers Policy
• Menopause Policy
• Safer Recruitment Policy
• PREVENT Policy
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
issues are explored in the following formats and forums:
1. Whole School Assemblies
2. Tutor Periods
3. Informal conversations within boarding houses etc.
4. Chapel (it is central to the Christian ethos of the School)
5. The PSHE Curriculum
6. Staff INSET sessions
7. Discrete subject lessons
8. Workshops with parents
9. Blogs, Twitter, Instagram etc.
10. Contributions to the national debate
11. Our work with refugees (profiled by BBC, Grenada Television and The Times)
We are particularly committed to our work with those fleeing persecution and war. This builds on the legacy of Rossall’s involvement in the Kindertransport during the late 1930s.
Inclusion
Our commitment to widening access and ensuring that we are a diverse and inclusive community is reflected in our extensive outreach programme and support of charitable endeavours such as The Boathouse Youth which works with some of the most deprived young people in Blackpool.
It is also reflected in our extensive scholarship and bursary programme which in 2023/24 (including the Trapnell and Jackson scholarship funds) made awards to pupils totalling £2,636,341 which equated to 14.1% of fee income.
Religion
We are a Church of England foundation and the Chapel is central to the spiritual life of the School. Alongside the traditional chapel services during term time, the Chapel Choir sings Evensong every other Sunday evening and the service is opened up to parents and members of the public. Recently, a contemporary worship group has performed on a number of occasions and this represents the more evangelical wing of the Church. The Christian Union has a more evangelical feel. Boarders who are Catholic have the option of attending mass at St Wulfstan’s in Fleetwood on Sunday mornings.
We have a prayer room and a good number of students are observant and fast during Ramadan. Eid-al-Fitr celebrations grow every year. We are also a community that contains Sikhs, Jews and Buddhists. Of course, many of our children are of no faith but we hope that an understanding of different religions and the quiet contemplative space offered by the Chapel serves to nurture the spiritual dimension of their beings.
over £2.6million in awards equalling 14.1% of fee income
Sustainability - A Greener Future
ENSURING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE IS CRITICAL TO OUR VISION.
In a world where companies are increasingly expected to take decisive climate action, Rossall is determined to lead by example. The establishment of net-zero targets underscores our commitment to ensuring a greener future. Furthermore, taking proactive measures today enables us to preempt future risk. It allows us to prepare for forthcoming emissions-related regulations.
A potential consequence of embracing sustainable practices is the potential for significant cost reduction. Achieving our net-zero objectives can yield substantial savings through reduced energy expenditures. The installation of a 900 MWh wind turbine on our campus offers substantial promise in this regard.
At present, our annual on-site electricity consumption stands at 171,300 kWh. Based on calculations pertinent to our geographical location and prevailing wind speeds, the 900 MWh wind turbine is projected to generate 2,142 kWh. Of this output, 46% will directly fulfil our site’s energy needs, with the remaining 54% channelled into the battery storage system. This allows us to offset up to 39.9 tonnes of CO2 annually.
Transitioning from conventional gas heating to ground source heat pumps presents a greener alternative, reducing energy usage by 30%-60% in typical applications. These pumps will be powered by our own on-site green energy sources, further diminishing our carbon footprint.
By promoting awareness of our actions, we can inspire our children to adopt environmentally conscious behaviours. Pupils from across the school are currently engaged with the Eco Schools award, with our Eco society auditing our current provisions and identifying areas where changes can be made.
Pupils are taught of the importance of acting as custodians for the planet, with our Eco society allowing them to put this into action around our campus. As well as the larger scale projects taking place, it is essential that we reduce our impact as a school. Replacement of less energy-efficient equipment, and changing over to LED lighting and sensors to control how much lighting is using is just one of many ways that we look to achieve this.
Our school’s 167-acre campus encompasses valuable habitat that supports a diverse ecosystem. We must leverage this invaluable asset by seeking opportunities to enhance biodiversity while serving as stewards of existing habitats. We are actively exploring the possibility of developing a new expanse of woodland on Shepherd’s Field. By collaborating with Natural England and Wyre Council, we hope to transform this land into an outstanding example of biodiversity.
