Adventure awaits at Rishworth School. After all, this is a school whose past teachers included the real James Bond himself. Patrick Dalzel-Job was “an unusual officer who possesses no fear of danger,” the kind who would evacuate all civilians from a large town called Narvik just before it was destroyed by German bombers — courage and charisma that would inspire a decades-long blockbuster series.
At Rishworth School, Dalzel-Job taught Chemistry and ran the Combined Cadets Force (CCF). His legacy prevails. At any given day, life at the school is action-packed — the kind that would lead to an excellent education both in and out of the classroom.
Each week, there are over 90 enrichment and extension activities available to students. From skiing and rock climbing to astronomy and mystery solving, these let students live the school’s motto “Res Non Verba” (Deeds Not Words).
Such spirit and adventure are found from the nursery room through to Sixth Form. They start young exploring the great outdoors during forest school. By the time they reach the end of their schooling journey, students are bold and courageous in their academic achievements. Many set off to top universities such as Cambridge to study law, or even to taking exciting routes such as commercial pilot training.
Nurturing every student’s individual talents
Founded in 1724, Rishworth School has been around for almost 300 years. It offers a curriculum designed to cater to every child’s needs. Small classes — 15 on average at the Senior School and eight on average in the Sixth Form — allow teachers to understand each child’s character and talents. It’s an approach that’s led to outstanding exam results. Based on the 2022 summer A Level examinations, students of Rishworth School achieved a 100% pass rate, and 80% of students scored A* to C.
Still, academic excellence is only one aspect of success Rishworth School students achieve. Self-discovery, finding new passions, trying new things and learning new skills outside of the classroom are some achievements a student will experience during their years here.
Understanding the role that learning outside the classroom plays in students’ development, Rishworth introduced enrichment programmes that range from music and sports to photography and film.
Fancy learning to Kayak or learn how to code? Rishworth School has both a kayaking club and a coding programme for students. On top of that, F1 remote control, cooking club, orchestra and community projects are some of the other options available.
Known for producing top-class athletes, Rishworth School is where students evolve into national athletes for rugby, hockey, netball, swimming, tennis, football and dance. Several of their rugby players have gone on to play professionally, including captain of the Leicester Tigers, George Ford and England Rugby League player Gareth Widdop.
Along with their enrichment programmes, Rishworth School offers extension programmes where students can opt to take additional studies. The programmes include Medical Society, Literacy Support, Careers Planning, Spanish Higher Support and International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
Designed to support students, the Medical Society guides students interested in pursuing a career in medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, nursing or physiotherapy. Students attend talks by medical students and professors as well as join trips to various places of medical significance. Mentors provide tips and tricks to help them with their entrance exams and interviews when applying for medical school. Such activities are impactful — in the last five years, 100% of Rishworth School students applying to study medicine at university have secured a place.
Picturesque location overlooking green hills
Rishworth School is an independent day and boarding school with decades of experience in boarding students from cities near and far. Located in the countryside within Ryburn Valley, the 140-acre campus overlooks moors, fields, hills and the reservoir — the perfect backdrop for the spirit of community and the sense of belonging every students feels here.
It is a home away from home with a blend of people, practices, provisions, and place where students can thrive. Boarders feel happy, cared for, healthy and secure. “Rishworth School taught independence and gave me confidence. Boarding at Rishworth solidified these attributes,” says former student Andy McPhail.
Weekends at Rishworth School are filled with activities organised by the boarding staff. Students can try new things and bond with others through activities such as ceramics workshops, jewellery workshops, paintballing, Halloween parties, and trips to the theatre and nearby cities.
For families needing help to cover the cost of the school fees, Rishworth School has financial aid options available to ensure that all students with potential can attend the school. Students interested can apply for scholarships or bursaries to help with the cost.
Click here to enrol and begin your child’s journey at Rishworth School.
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