RYEDALE SCHOOL ASPIRE AND ACHIEVE A LEADING EDGE SCHOOL
A HIGH PERFORMING SPECIALIST STATUS SCHOOL SPECIALISMS IN THE PERFORMING ARTS SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS
‘A school that believes there's more to life than GCSEs and still comes up with the goods in exams. Pupils leave with secondary school qualifications and primary school enthusiasm.’ The Good Schools Guide 2010
‘Parents are overwhelmingly supportive of the quality of education the school offers.’ Ofsted
Welcome to Ryedale School... A thriving and highly successful secondary school with 557 pupils. Our students, who come to us from nine partner Primary schools, are fortunate to live in an area of great scenic beauty, embracing the western end of the Vale of Pickering and part of the North York Moors. Ours is a small and friendly school, but it is also forward thinking and dynamic. We provide a secure, stable framework in which pupils can grow academically and socially. In educating pupils for the challenges of the twenty-first century, we combine the teaching of up-to-date skills and knowledge with core values such as hard work, high achievement, consideration and honesty. It is our intention that Ryedale pupils are prepared for both life and work in a rapidly changing technological society, and to take their place as responsible members of a caring community. There is a strong partnership between pupils, parents, staff and governors who work together to provide a wide range of educational opportunities for all learners. A strong and resourceful Parent Teacher Association has significantly enhanced many areas of school life. The Governors are very supportive of the continuous improvement within the School and work closely with staff to ensure that this occurs. Everyone in the partnership is working to provide the best environment in which students can flourish.
In 2004 Ryedale School was granted Leading Edge Status by the government. Ryedale School’s position as one of the leading comprehensive schools in North Yorkshire is reflected in consistently high achievement and performance in examinations, and the progress made by the secondary schools we are asked to support. From 2009 we have been granted a second specialism as part of our High Performing Specialist Status – that specialism is Science (with Mathematics). This not only reflects our strength across the curriculum, but also our aim to continually develop and improve the educational experience for all learners. The academic achievements of the students are facilitated not only by high quality teaching and learning, but also by establishing a creative and inclusive atmosphere in which individual talents are nurtured and allowed to flourish. Our extensive range of extra-curricular activities develops skills, interests, relationships and, most importantly, the students’ enjoyment of school life and learning. I do hope that you will want to visit us and experience our vibrant school for yourself. I look forward to welcoming you to our superb learning environment at Ryedale School. Richard Crane Headteacher
ASPIRE AND ACHIEVE We believe in providing the right blend of support and challenge to enable all learners to maximise their potential in all aspects of life at Ryedale. There is a great emphasis on achievement, creativity, teamwork and leadership. Sustained effort and high expectations are needed if potential is to be fulfilled.
emphasis on the individual. Relationships between peers, and between students and staff, are positive and caring. Individual strengths and talents are recognised and given the opportunity to develop. Areas for development are identified and addressed. This personalised approach to the holistic development of the child is a real strength of the Ryedale learning experience.
‘Students respond positively to the school’s high expectations of behaviour and responsibility; this is reflected in their excellent attitudes and relationships with adults and their peers.’ Ofsted
We believe this emphasis on individual development facilitates a desire to succeed and to make the most of the opportunities available to all learners at Ryedale. In all aspects of school life we value high achievement and encourage students to make a positive contribution to the school and the local, national and international communities. We celebrate achievement whenever possible within school assemblies and celebrations and events. We recognise the fundamental importance of the educational process in helping to create global citizens who make an active and positive contribution to society.
The social and cultural development of the students is engendered throughout the curriculum, but it is perhaps most evident in the wide range of extra-curricular opportunities available at Ryedale. Aiming to improve one’s performance, to broaden horizons and to think independently is at the heart of what we provide. Central to the ethos of Ryedale School is the
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Older students, who act as prefects and peer mentors, feel they have a duty of care towards younger students. Students feel safe in school and engage in safe working practices.’ Ofsted ve ie h Ac
LEARNING AND TEACHING ‘Teachers have thorough subject knowledge and plan lessons carefully.’ Ofsted Central to the success of our school is high quality teaching which facilitates superb learning. Staff work hard to create a learning environment where students develop a love of learning and are encouraged to be expressive, creative, evaluative and think independently. Teachers regularly collaborate in order to develop best practice in the classroom, and this is facilitated by the work of leading practitioners within the school. Assessment data on students informs a personalised approach to teaching and learning to ensure that the learning needs of all are met. The quality of Teaching and Learning is monitored closely as part of school self evaluation processes, enabling us to develop innovative approaches to the learning experience. In addition, teachers from Ryedale School are collaborating with colleagues from other schools in order to develop best practice in other educational institutions. ‘The school’s focus on the development of teaching and learning, through Leading Edge Status, is reflected in the good practice throughout the school.’ Ofsted
CARE, GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT A CLIMATE OF SUCCESS ‘The climate of the school is one of continuous improvement.’ School Improvement Partner 2010 At Ryedale we are committed to providing equality of opportunity and a school climate in which every student is able to achieve their best. Our high expectations are set within a caring and supportive framework, based upon high standards of work and behaviour and respect for the individual. ‘The good care and support given to students ensures that all students feel valued.’ Ofsted Every child is placed in a Tutor Group, attached to a House. The Form Tutor is the person with whom the child has the closest contact on a dayto-day basis. Mr McCandless, Assistant Headteacher (Inclusion) oversees the care of the children and is also responsible for most of the disciplinary functions within the School. ‘Students’ exemplary behaviour and attitudes contribute significantly to their learning and they are excellent ambassadors for the school.’ Ofsted A merit system exists to recognise the achievements of students, both academically and socially. Subject commendation certificates are given to outstanding pupils in all year groups. Hard work, achievement, creativity and making a positive contribution are all celebrated at Ryedale School. We believe that an engaging curriculum and wide variety of extra-curricular opportunities will reduce any disruption to learning. However, we also have a clear system of sanctions which ensures that students aspire to the highest standards. This provides a clear framework within which misdemeanours are challenged and sanctioned in a consistent manner. A very positive relationship with parents and clear communication is key to our success in this area. The Alternative Learning Centre is used to support students who are vulnerable or are having difficulty coping with school expectations.
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‘The use of the Alternative Learning Centre is particularly effective at giving additional support to the most vulnerable students and those at risk.’ Ofsted
OUR CURRICULUM BREADTH AND DIVERSITY Our curricular offer is very diverse in order to allow students to make the most of their abilities and to study a broad variety of subjects during their time at Ryedale. ‘There is a well established positive climate for learning across the school.’ Ofsted For academic subjects, our students are set according to ability from the beginning of Year 7 based on their end of Key Stage 2 levels. Regular assessment monitors progress of all learners, and students may be moved between groups in order to maximise their achievement and progress whenever the need arises. Initially students will be taught in mixed ability groups for their practical subjects, but some organisation by ability often takes place in music groups. ‘All staff have high expectations of students and set aspirational targets. Students know their targets, and what they need to do to improve or move on to the next stage.’ School Improvement Partner 2010
In Years 10 and 11, students currently study the compulsory National Curriculum subjects of English, Mathematics, Science and ICT. Options include Triple Science, French, German, Design and Technology, Food Technology, History, Geography, Religious Education, Music, Art, Drama, Dance and Physical Education. A range of accredited vocational courses are also available at Key Stage 4. Some students opt for Engineering, Construction, Creative and Media, Agriculture, Hairdressing, and Animal Care, and all follow an accredited Information Technology course. Students also follow programmes of Physical Education, Religious Education and Citizenship, which do not necessarily lead to formal qualifications. ‘Students’ personal development and self esteem are enhanced by high quality experiences in lessons and extra curricular activities.’ Ofsted ‘The progress of students at all stages is carefully monitored and tracking systems are used to identify underachieving students who then receive appropriate intervention.’ Ofsted
PARTNERSHIPS AND PROGRESSION AT POST 16 Ryedale School prides itself on collaborating with other schools, but an exciting new initiative is developing at Post 16. Ryedale has an established partnership with other local schools – Malton School, Lady Lumley’s School and Norton College. This involves students studying sixth form courses in schools where particular areas of curricular strength can be offered. This means that students can benefit from the fantastic teaching and learning environment at Ryedale, as well as at other local schools. However, we are keen to develop this further in view of the many strengths of Ryedale School. A close partnership has been formed with Malton School which will enable us to develop joint sixth form provision, allowing students to access Key Stage 5 courses at both schools in the future. The development of sixth form provision at Ryedale is a key development for the school, allowing a natural progression from Key Stage 4 for our learners, and clearly shows Ryedale is going from strength to strength!
SPECIALIST STATUS IN THE PERFORMING ARTS Awarded Specialist Status in the Performing Arts in September 2004, in summer 2010 the school was redesignated in recognition of sustained achievement in this area. Specialist Status has significantly improved the learning experience for all at Ryedale in a number of ways: First Class Teaching Facilities for Performing Arts Subjects. The Drama Studio, with sprung floors for dance, is a fantastic space for performances. The Music Department has two spacious extremely well equipped classrooms and a state-of-the–art recording studio with four instrumental practice rooms to accommodate individual tuition. The successful GCSE courses in Music, Art, Drama and Dance are now complemented by the new Diploma in Creative and Media, and A Level Music Technology. There is a wide range of extra-curricular performance activities ranging from Drama and Dance Clubs, members of which perform regularly in assembly and public performances, to the popular after-school art sessions, and the wide variety of musical activities including vocal, choral and string groups, wind and jazz band, theory classes and various rock groups. With visits from artists, a six-piece jazz band, a DJ, various contemporary and street dancers, and actors, the inspiration provided by access to highquality professional support is greatly valued by students and staff alike working to the highest possible standards.
“The school’s Specialist Status and its focus on transferable skills has improved attainment and enjoyment and is making a very good impact with local primary schools and the wider community.” Ofsted The number of students receiving instrumental lessons has more than doubled in the past three years. A quarter of our students now receive weekly tuition on a wide range of instruments, from violin to drums to singing. The school regularly enters students for Royal School of Music Associated Board exams and has achieved excellent results over time. Other subject areas throughout school have benefited greatly with the self-confidence of students taking part in the wide range of activities being enhanced. This leads to more independence of thought and a willingness to explore new ideas. New technology provided through Specialist Status funding, including PCs, laptops, software, digital cameras, staging and lighting, has significantly improved the learning experience for all. Another significant benefit has been to develop the skills of young people and others in the wider community by working with a number of groups, such as churches and charities. There has been a large number of projects with all our partner primary schools, delivered by our staff at Ryedale School or independent professional artists. Links with Sixth Form providers have been established to ensure that progression beyond Year 11 at Ryedale School is strong. The aim is always to broaden the experience for our students and to deliver new and exciting opportunities to the community group which is benefiting.
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In short, Specialist Status has had a huge impact on the life of the school and has opened up opportunities to every learner.
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PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR 2009-2010 This brief diary demonstrates the diverse range of activities available to students during the course of the year. Demonstrating the culture of performance that gives students the confidence to perform to each other and get a real sense of achievement from it.
SEPTEMBER Year 10 GCSE Drama Group take part in the National Shakespeare Festival, performing at the West Yorkshire Playhouse. Performing Arts pupils give the first of 20 school assemblies to fellow pupils and staff. OCTOBER ABRSM Practical Exams take place for 20 musicians. NOVEMBER Martin Riley, a professional playwright, leads a workshop on the Canterbury Tales for Year 11 GCSE Drama group. DECEMBER Year 11 GCSE Drama Group perform Canterbury Tales at Helmsley Arts Centre and the Drama Studio. School Carol Service at All Saints’ Church, Helmsley, involving over 100 pupils. JANUARY Preparations begin for our major event of the year, the performance evening, involving over 150 pupils. We participate in Jazz Yorkshire Band Competition, winning a Silver Award for performance, and several other awards including the Leeds College of Music Award for the most promising band. FEBRUARY ABRSM Practical Exams take place for 17 musicians. MARCH Performance Evening, involving 150 pupils participating in music, dance and drama in collaboration with other departments such as Science, Design and Technology and Art. Richard Durrant, an internationally renowned guitarist and composer, visits us for the second year running to give a series of talks, workshops and performances.
APRIL 27 Year 11 GCSE Drama and Dance pupils showcase their curriculum work to friends and family... MAY ...Before performing to the Exam Board moderators with tremendous success. JUNE ABRSM Practical Exams take place for 23 musicians. The pass rate for the year is 100%, and the Distinction rate is 32%, well above the national average. Booma, a professional dancer begins a series of workshops with Year 9 and 10 dancers, and our Partner Primary schools. JULY A cast of 50 pupils give a matinee and evening performance of Alice in Wonderland to a full house. 80 pupils participate in the Music Department Summer Concert and Supper. The first cohort of 25 pupils pass their Arts Award moderation at Bronze and Silver level. The following activities run on a regular basis throughout the academic year at lunch time or after school: Music Year 7 and 8 Choir, Year 9, 10 and 11 Singing Group, Girls’ Chamber Choir, Wind Band, Jazz Band, Grade 5 Theory Classes. Dance and Drama Lower and Upper School Dance Groups, Arts Award, plus regular rehearsals for all performances such as Alice in Wonderland.
GIFTED AND TALENTED STUDENTS It is an important part of each subject teacher’s responsibility to ensure that all students, including the most able, are stretched and challenged. Many students are gifted in areas of academic study and others have talents in subjects such as Art, Drama and Music. Gifted and talented individuals are identified and their progress monitored by a senior member of staff, teaching methods are tailored to ensure the appropriate level of challenge, and enrichment activities take place to ensure that all students receive an educational experience which enables them to flourish and constantly improve.
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‘The school sets challenging targets for students of all ability levels.’ Ofsted
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SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS Mrs Degazon is in charge of the Learning Support Department which looks after students with a wide range of special educational needs. Teaching assistants are deployed in classes where required and can also deliver literacy and numeracy support in conjunction with the class teacher. Smaller teaching groups have also been created for students who may require more intensive help or support. Progress of SEN students in school is monitored closely and a variety of interventions put in place if a student shows signs of struggling with their work or in social situations. In addition, some students may require more intensive support and this is provided in the Alternative Learning Centre. This is run by
Mrs Degazon and the Teaching Assistants and provides a base for mentoring activities and for individual students to receive further assistance. The SEN department also works closely with outside agencies who provide advice, support and training regarding pupils with specific conditions. Further information, including the school’s Special Educational Needs Policy, is available on request and parents are encouraged to contact Mrs Degazon if they have any questions regarding SEN provision or wish to discuss their child’s individual needs.
‘Students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities make good progress and achieve well.’ Ofsted
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES There is a huge range of extra-curricular opportunities taking place throughout the year and the offer includes: Fitness, Football, Hockey, Homework Club, ICT, Junior Jazz, Senior Dance, Library Resource Centre, Morning Club, Netball, Reading Club, GCSE Geography, Additional Maths, Art Club,
Chess Club, Food Club, Girls’ Football, Junior Dance, Senior Singing, Arts Award, Badminton, String Group, Rugby, Cricket, Jazz Band, Junior Singing, Spelling Club, Latin, Basketball, Cross Country, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Music Theory Club, Girls’ Chamber Choir, GCSE Music Coursework, Housematches, Games Club, Italian for beginners, Senior boys and staff football club.
SPORT AT RYEDALE Our achievements are remarkable when you consider the size of the school. Apart from distinguished individual performances (including representative honours at District, County and National level in a variety of games), Ryedale teams regularly win the District and County competitions. Students are given the opportunity: • to learn a wide range of sporting skills • to get fit and have fun • to play in House competitions • to represent the School against other schools • to represent the District, County and Country, as individuals and as members of their School team • to learn the principles of living a healthy lifestyle • to do GCSE Physical Education in Years 10 and 11.
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‘Beyond the taught curriculum there is a wide range of established extra-curricular activities. Students make very good use of these opportunities.’ Ofsted
SPORTING SUCCESSES 2009/2010 INTER-SCHOOL TEAM CHALLENGE WINNERS Year 7 Basketball County Champions Year 7 Basketball District Champions Year 7 Ryedale & Whitby Sports Partnership Basketball Champions Year 7 Rugby District Champions Year 7 Hockey District Tournament Winners Year 8 Basketball District Champions Year 8 Basketball County Champions Year 8 Ryedale & Whitby Sports Partnership Basketball Champions Year 8 Netball District Cup Finalists Year 9 Tennis District Tournament Winners Year 9 Basketball District Champions Year 9 Ryedale & Whitby Sports Partnership Basketball Champions Year 9 Netball District Cup Winners U13/U15 District Tennis Tournament Winners KS3 District Athletics Champions Year 10 Basketball District Champions Year 10 Ryedale & Whitby Sports Partnership Football Champions Year 10 Ryedale & Whitby Sports Partnership Basketball Champions Year 10 Netball District Tournament Winners U16 Hockey District Tournament Winners Year 10&11 Ryedale & Whitby Sports Partnership Rounders Champions Year 11 Basketball District Champions Year 11 Rugby 7’s District Champions Year 11 Rugby District Champions
REPRESENTATIVE HONOURS 3 boys represented the County at Rugby 1 girl represented the County at Cross Country 2 girls represented the County at Hockey (U16) 6 girls represented the District at Athletics 3 boys represented the District at Athletics 1 girl represented the District at Cross Country 9 girls represented the District at Netball 4 boys represented the District at Cross Country 2 girls represented the District at Tennis 4 girls represented the District at Hockey 1 boy represented the County at Athletics 1 girl represented the County at Netball 3 boys represented the District at Cricket 1 boy represented the County at Cricket All 5 Basketball teams represented the District at Basketball The Year 11 team represented the District at Netball
INTERNATIONAL HONOURS Former and current Ryedale School students who have represented their country are: Peter Robertshaw (1500 metres), Rob Russell (discus), Helen Douthwaite (swimming), James Almond (football), Daniel Broadbent (cricket), Adele Butler (rounders), Donna Wallis (rounders), Chantelle Magson (football).
ENRICHMENT COURSES LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM During the last week of the Summer Term the students are given a choice of courses organised by staff, which offer exciting opportunities not usually available in a Secondary curriculum. In 2010 students visited Berlin and tackled outdoor activities in the Ardeche. There were also opportunities to take part in music, jewellery making, outdoor pursuits, drama, digital photography, cricket, and golf, to provide an exciting end to the academic year. Year 7 enjoyed Enterprise and first aid activities.
Skills range from playing musical instruments, to horse handling and care. We have a committed group of over 100 students working towards Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. The Bronze group start at the end of Year 9 and spend 10 months developing their skills. The award is held in high regard by colleges and employers.
THE SCHOOL AIMS Venture courses have now been running successfully for over 30 years, giving the students a chance to learn new skills, have new experiences and make new friends. Their educational and social value makes them a worthwhile addition to the school year. We are fortunate at Ryedale that we have the staff and the students with the energy and commitment to make these courses a positive experience for all.
DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD Ryedale School’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Unit continues to thrive. The expeditions are usually held on the North York Moors. Students give service to the community in a wide variety of ways, including riding for the disabled and helping younger students learn to read.
1. To provide a safe and stimulating environment in which young people can flourish academically, socially, physically and emotionally. 2. To provide challenging, inclusive and personalised programmes of curricular and extra-curricular opportunities, which maximise enjoyment and achievement, during and beyond the school day. 3. To encourage young people to develop into good citizens by emphasising traditional values, facilitating the Student Voice and raising awareness of key issues and democratic processes. 4. To create strong, collaborative partnerships between the school parents and wider community for the benefit of all and to further promote community cohesion. 5. To foster an attitude of mutual trust and respect so that our young people and everyone who works with or for them, feel sufficiently secure and valued to want to contribute positively to the school improvement process.
RYEDALE SCHOOL ASPIRE AND ACHIEVE Gale Lane, Nawton, York, YO62 7SL Telephone: 01439 771665 Fax: 01439 770697 Email: admin@ryedale.n-yorks.sch.uk