Ysgol Rhiwabon welcomed record numbers to its Community Open Evening, as new Year 7 students shared their first weeks at the school.
Ysgol Rhiwabon opened its doors to record numbers at this year’s Community Open Evening. The event followed a very successful SWAN Induction Programme for the school’s new Year 7 students. During the evening, families heard first-hand how the school helps children settle in after leaving primary school.
A Packed Hall for the SWAN Story
Headteacher Mr Patrick Bingham welcomed families to a packed main hall. Four Year 7 students joined him to present. All four had taken part in the SWAN Induction Programme.
Together, they talked about their move from primary to secondary school. They also described how they have settled in at Ysgol Rhiwabon. As a result, families gained a real insight into the school’s approach.
Estyn also praised this approach in its latest inspection report from March 2023. According to the inspectors, “transition arrangements to support pupils’ well-being are a strength of the school.” In particular, staff help pupils settle in by being welcoming and getting to know them quickly.
How the School Supports New Pupils
For example, Year 7 pupils start with a two-week cross-curricular project. During this project, they learn in their form groups. For much of Year 7, they also enjoy a separate play area at break and lunch times.
Estyn found that these approaches “help pupils to feel safe and to integrate successfully into their new school.” Year 6 and 7 parents agree, and they have praised the school’s work. In fact, many feel really happy with how the school welcomes its youngest members.
What Parents Value Most
One parent urged the school to “keep on going with your fantastic ideas” for a smooth transition. Another said their daughter has got to know her classmates and made lots of new friends. She also says the teachers are “very kind and helpful.”
Other parents valued the extra care and support during this huge change. For instance, one parent liked that their child didn’t have to navigate the whole school at first. Instead, he had the chance to get to know his surroundings.
A Proud Night for the School
Mr Bingham described the Open Evening as one of the biggest events in the school calendar. “Our Open Evening is one of our biggest events in the school calendar, where we welcome families from our community to visit Ysgol Rhiwabon and see what an amazing school we are,” he said. “It provides an opportunity for staff and students to showcase our pride in the school. The whole evening had a really positive feeling to it, and it was great to welcome and meet parents and students from the local area and beyond.”
He added that the event also matters to local families as they look to the future. Overall, it was “a very busy but successful evening”.
Feature image: Ysgol Rhiwabon headteacher Patrick Bingham.
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