Rishworth School
Rishworth, Sowerby Bridge, HX6 4QA
Pupils
420
Ages
3 - 18
Gender
Co-educational
Type
Primary & Secondary
Head Teacher
Mr Anthony Wilkins
Boarding / Day
Day, Weekly/Flexible Boarding and Full Boarding
Fees
£235 to £4,700
ISC Associations
The Society of Heads, AGBIS, ISBA, IAPS
Religion
Church of England (Evangelical)
Bursaries
Available
About Rishworth School
Rishworth School, located in the picturesque town of Sowerby Bridge, offers a unique educational experience grounded in a Church of England (Evangelical) ethos. This co-educational school caters to both boys and girls aged from three to 18, providing a comprehensive educational journey from early years through to the end of secondary education. The school is known for its inclusive environment, welcoming students from all faiths and backgrounds.
One of the standout features of the school is its flexible boarding options. With day, weekly/flexible, and full boarding available, families can choose the arrangement that best suits their needs. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who require a balance between home life and the immersive educational experience that boarding can offer.
The curriculum at the school is broad and balanced, with a strong emphasis on both academic and personal development. Students have the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects, including traditional disciplines such as Mathematics, English, and the Sciences, as well as creative subjects like Art and Music. This diverse curriculum ensures that students can explore their interests and talents, preparing them for a variety of future pathways.
The school places a significant emphasis on extra-curricular activities, recognising their importance in fostering a well-rounded education. Students are encouraged to participate in sports, drama, and various clubs, which not only enhance their skills but also promote teamwork and leadership. These activities are integral to the school’s commitment to developing confident and capable young individuals.
Pastoral care is a key component of the school’s ethos, with a strong focus on student wellbeing. The staff are dedicated to creating a supportive environment where students feel valued and understood. The Head of Learning Support plays a crucial role in ensuring that all students, regardless of their individual needs, receive the guidance and assistance necessary to thrive academically and personally.
The school’s facilities are designed to support a wide range of activities and learning experiences. Classrooms are well-equipped, and there are specialised areas for subjects such as Science and Technology. The sports facilities are extensive, providing students with the opportunity to engage in a variety of physical activities, which are essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Community involvement is another important aspect of life at the school. Students are encouraged to participate in local events and initiatives, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to the wider community. This engagement not only enriches the students’ educational experience but also helps to develop their social awareness and empathy.
The school’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its approach to teaching and learning. The dedicated staff work tirelessly to ensure that each student reaches their full potential, providing personalised support and guidance. This commitment is reflected in the students’ achievements and the positive feedback from parents and alumni.
In summary, Rishworth School offers a nurturing and dynamic environment where students can flourish both academically and personally. Its combination of a broad curriculum, strong pastoral care, and a wide range of extra-curricular activities makes it an excellent choice for families seeking a well-rounded education for their children. The school’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive community ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the future.
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ISI Review
Rishworth School, founded in 1724 by John Wheelwright, is a co-educational day and boarding school located in Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire. The school has a broadly Christian ethos and welcomes pupils of all faiths and none. It spans over 103 acres of parkland, with the senior school catering for students aged 11 to 19 and the junior school, Heathfield, serving day pupils aged 3 to 11. The school operates as a charitable trust governed by a board of governors. Since the last inspection, the senior leadership team has expanded to include a director of teaching and learning and a designated safeguarding lead.
Rishworth School aims to provide a broad education in a friendly and caring environment, fostering a love of learning, self-discipline, responsibility, and an appreciation of personal and spiritual values. The pupil demographic includes day students primarily from West Yorkshire and boarders from various locations, both domestic and international. The school has a higher-than-average ability profile, with a significant number of pupils identified as having special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and those requiring support for English as an additional language (EAL).
The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) confirmed that Rishworth School meets the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection evaluated various aspects, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety of pupils, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality. The findings indicated that the school meets all required standards, with no further action needed.
In terms of educational quality, the school has demonstrated excellent academic achievements. Performance in GCSE examinations from 2013 to 2016 was above the national average for maintained schools, with IGCSE results also exceeding worldwide norms in subjects like German and Chinese. A-level results were in line with national averages, and the curriculum is well-documented, supported by effective teaching and assessment frameworks. The school promotes good progress through effective behavior management and suitable resources.
The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school encourages boarders to express their views, and the prefect system is well-managed. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard and promote their well-being, including health and safety measures, first aid provisions, and proper supervision.
The school ensures the suitability of staff through appropriate checks and maintains a register as required. The premises provide adequate facilities for pupils, including suitable toilet and changing facilities, and the boarding accommodation meets the needs of all boarders. The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about the curriculum, admissions, behavior policies, and academic performance.
Complaints are handled effectively through a structured three-stage process, ensuring transparency and accountability. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively and promoting pupil well-being.
The educational quality inspection highlighted that the quality of pupils' academic and other achievements is excellent. Pupils exhibit enthusiasm for learning and make good progress, supported by targeted assistance. They demonstrate strong research and presentation skills, actively participating in a variety of extracurricular activities. The personal development of pupils is also excellent, with high levels of self-understanding and confidence fostered through individualized support.
Pupils develop decision-making skills from an early age, with opportunities to express their views and make choices in their learning. The school promotes a strong moral awareness, with exemplary behavior observed throughout the school community. The Christian ethos is evident in assemblies and collective worship, conducted with sensitivity to the diverse faith backgrounds of the pupils.
Overall, Rishworth School provides a nurturing environment that supports the academic and personal development of its pupils, preparing them for future success while instilling values of respect, responsibility, and community engagement. The school’s commitment to high standards in education and pupil welfare is reflected in its positive inspection outcomes and the achievements of its students.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024