ROSSALL NEWS
Dates For Your Diary
Rossall's Wellbeing Bridge
Reverend Richard Coles Brings A Heist Before Bedtime to Rossall School
Rossall School Recognised Nationally for Leadership in AI in Education
Sports Highlights of the Week
Headmaster’s Awards
Rossall Rose Annual Colour Run Return
Business and Economics Library Week Inspires Student Curiosity and Debate
Rossall School Supports Blackpool 10K Fundraiser for Trinity Hospice
Eco Society Continues to Drive Sustainability Across Campus
Year 12 IB Biology Students Undertake Internal Assessment Practical Investigations
Rossall School to Honour Kindertransport Legacy with New Garden of Reflection
Ways to be Well At Rossall
The Rossallian
IN THIS ISSUE
PRE-PREP & PREP SCHOOL NEWSLETTER
Rossall Rose Colour Run - Friday 15 May, 4:00pm
Whole School Open Day - Saturday 6 June, 10am - 2pm
Midlands Drink Reception - Thursday 11 June, 6:30pm - 9:30pm
An Evening of Dance by Rossall Dance Academy - Monday 8 June, 7pm
Rossall Rose Wine Tasting Evening - Friday 19 June, 7pm - 10pm
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Rossall's Wellbeing Bridge
In the spirit of community, we warmly invite parents from across Rossall to attend our second Wellbeing Bridge meeting.
The session will take place on Tuesday 19 May at 4.30pm in the Pennine Suite.
We are pleased to be joined by Dave Carlos, a Lancashire Constabulary Cyber Volunteer, who will lead a discussion on Cyber Safety and provide practical guidance on staying safe online.
We look forward to welcoming parents for what promises to be an informative and valuable session.
Please RSVP to j.moore@rossall.org.uk.
Reverend Richard Coles Brings A Heist Before Bedtime to Rossall School
Rossall School hosted bestselling author, broadcaster, and Church of England priest Reverend Richard Coles for a special literary event featuring his latest book, A Heist Before Bedtime: True Scrapes and Escapes.
Rossall welcomed pupils, parents, local schools, and members of the wider community to an engaging reading and book signing session. Reverend Richard Coles shared excerpts from his book, which featured daring heists, bizarre crimes, and remarkable escapes presented with his signature humour and storytelling style. The talk was delivered with energy and charm, keeping the audience highly entertained throughout.
Following the reading, he signed copies of his book and met attendees. The visit concluded with group photographs, with guests leaving in high spirits and enthusiastic to explore the stories further.
The event was widely enjoyed by both the school community and visiting guests and added a memorable highlight to the school calendar.
Year 6 student, Joel, shared his experience of the event here.
Rossall School Recognised Nationally for Leadership in AI in Education
Rossall School been recognised nationally for its leadership in educational innovation, receiving the AiEd Certified Spotlight Award for its AI in Primary Education Conference. This achievement highlights the school’s ongoing commitment to preparing pupils for a rapidly evolving world, where technology and learning are increasingly interconnected.
The conference brought together primary educators and school leaders from across the sector to explore practical and responsible uses of artificial intelligence in the classroom. With a strong focus on real-world application, the event provided a platform for sharing effective strategies that enhance both teaching and learning. Discussions centred on how AI can support staff in working more efficiently while maintaining high standards of education for pupils.
At Rossall School, innovation is approached with purpose. The integration of AI is guided by a commitment to relevance, ambition, and responsibility, ensuring that technological advancements genuinely benefit the educational experience. The recognition from AiEd Certified affirms the school’s direction and reinforces its role in shaping thoughtful approaches to modern education.
A key element of the conference’s success was its collaborative nature. Educators from a diverse range of schools engaged with expert speakers and peers, creating a professional development experience rooted in practical insight and shared expertise. This emphasis on collaboration reflects our wider commitment to contributing positively to the education sector.
Building on this momentum, we continue to explore how artificial intelligence can support meaningful and responsible innovation in education, ensuring that pupils are well equipped for the future.
Sports Highlights of the Week
This week has been another excellent one across all sports, with outstanding performances and several teams progressing in major competitions.
In football, our U16 Girls have reached the Lancashire Cup Final after a strong 3-1 win against Our Lady’s Catholic High School. It was a disciplined and determined performance throughout, securing their place in the final which they now look forward to next Tuesday.
In cricket, there have been impressive achievements across multiple age groups. Our 1XI Boys have progressed into the next round of the U18 National T20 Cup following two excellent victories against Kirkham GS and Clitheroe RGS. In the first match, the team successfully chased down a huge target of 201 in just 14.1 overs, with standout half-centuries from Woody W and Theo S setting the tone. In the second match, after winning the toss and choosing to bowl, the team restricted Clitheroe RGS to 172. The batters then completed the chase with an over to spare, with Theo S once again producing a match-winning performance, finishing unbeaten on 74 from 56 balls. It was a dominant and composed set of performances across both fixtures.
Our U12 cricket team also progressed in the Lancashire Cup after a strong win against Kirkham GS. Captain Reuben M led from the front with an unbeaten 30 and figures of 2 for 3, while Ralph I contributed 2 for 8 and Rocco G took 4 for 13. The team secured victory by 23 runs after a well-rounded team effort.
In golf, our team is competing at the ISGA National Finals at Brocket Hall. Representing the school are Josh G, Molly C and Lila B. They will play over two rounds against other qualifying schools in what promises to be a challenging and exciting competition. Everyone wishes them the very best of luck over the next two days.
headmaster’s awards
This week’s Headmaster’s Award recognises two students whose quiet determination, effort, and growth truly deserve celebration.
Nilanth [Y8 Pelican House] is someone who consistently demonstrates kindness, integrity, and determination in everything he does, quietly reflecting the values we hold at Rossall. He approaches challenges with real resilience and continues to persevere even when things are difficult. It has been fantastic to see his confidence grow alongside his progress. Well done, Nilanth, keep trusting in yourself and the progress you are making.
Antonio [Y9 Mitre and Fleur-de-Lys House] is also a very deserving recipient this week for his continued progress in Biology. His most recent assessment on cell division reflects a significant step forward, showing real improvement and understanding. This has not come by chance, it is clear he has invested real time and effort into his revision, and that commitment is now paying off.
In lessons, Antonio continues to stand out for the right reasons: he is consistently engaged, asks thoughtful questions, and is increasingly confident in ensuring he fully understands the material, particularly in his use of key biological terminology and his ability to structure responses with growing precision. Well done, Antonio.
It is always rewarding to see hard work translate into progress, and both Antonio and Nilanth should feel genuinely proud of what they are achieving. Keep that momentum going, it is making a real difference.
Rossall Rose Annual Colour Run Returns
Get ready for one of the most exciting events in the Rossall calendar as Rossall Rose presents the Annual Colour Run.
Taking place on Friday 15 May, the afternoon begins at 4:00pm for Prep School pupils and continues at 4:30pm for Senior School. For just £5 per person, this vibrant event promises an unforgettable celebration of colour, energy and community spirit.
The Colour Run is far more than a fun activity. Every burst of colour helps support the wonderful work of Brian House Children's Hospice, making each step part of something truly meaningful.
The event will be packed with activities for everyone to enjoy. There will be a BBQ, a range of delicious food, a bar, and great music to keep the atmosphere lively throughout the afternoon. Families are warmly encouraged to come along and be part of the occasion.
One of the highlights of the day will be the Senior School House Tug of War, bringing a touch of friendly competition and plenty of school spirit.
This is a chance for the whole Rossall community to come together, have fun and make a real difference. Every step taken and every splash of colour contributes to an important cause.
Tickets can be purchased here.
Business and Economics Library Week Inspires Student Curiosity and Debate
“Business and Economics Library Week took place last week, offering students a range of engaging and thought-provoking activities designed to deepen their understanding of key economic and business concepts.
Throughout the week, tutor time featured a competitive business logo quiz, encouraging students to test their knowledge of global brands in a lively and interactive format. Boarders also took part in a film evening screening The Founder, providing insight into entrepreneurship, innovation and the development of one of the world’s most recognisable business stories.
The week concluded with an excellent student-led presentation from Timofei in Year 12, who explored the intriguing question, “Why can’t we just print more money?” The session sparked thoughtful discussion and demonstrated impressive independent thinking and subject knowledge.
Rossall School would like to thank all students who contributed to the week and helped make it such an engaging and enriching experience for all involved.”
— Mr Broadhead, Head of Economics & Mr Taylor, Head of Business
Rossall School Supports Blackpool 10K Fundraiser for Trinity Hospice
Rossall School is proud to support the upcoming Blackpool 10K fundraiser in aid of Trinity Hospice. This important event brings together the local community to raise vital funds for the hospice’s ongoing work across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast.
Trinity Hospice provides compassionate, specialist care for individuals and families facing life-limiting illnesses. Their work ensures patients receive expert and dignified support, while also offering comfort and guidance to loved ones during some of life’s most challenging moments.
By taking part in and supporting the Blackpool 10K, the Rossall community is helping to make a meaningful difference. Every donation contributes directly to sustaining the hospice’s services and ensuring they can continue to provide exceptional care to those who need it most.
Rossall School is pleased to stand alongside Trinity Hospice in supporting this valuable cause and encourages the wider community to get involved and show their support.
We appreciate all donations made, you can donate here.
Eco Society Continues to Drive Sustainability Across Campus
The Eco Society has been actively working this term to make a positive and lasting impact across the Rossall School grounds, with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental improvement.
At the start of term during INSET Day, staff supported the initiative by helping to enhance key outdoor areas, including the approach to the gazebo near MF House and the space in front of the Jackson Building. These early efforts helped set the tone for a term focused on improving and caring for shared school spaces.
A generous donation from Rossall Rose has enabled the Society to invest in important resources, including a small greenhouse, a water butt, gardening tools and a composter, now installed next to Rossall Kitchen. These additions have supported the development of practical, hands-on sustainability projects across the school.
Meeting weekly after school, the Eco Society is currently focused on the area beside the EAL classrooms. This work has already resulted in a productive herb planter, alongside the successful growth of strawberries, peppers and leeks.
This week also saw pupils from Rossall Prep School join the group, helping to tidy a planter and plant sage. The Eco Society continues to welcome new members and looks forward to further developing green spaces across the campus.
Year 12 IB Biology Students Undertake Internal Assessment Practical Investigations
This week, Year 12 IB Biology students carried out their Internal Assessment (IA) practical work, an important part of the IB Diploma Programme that allows students to investigate a biological question through hands-on experimentation and independent research.
The IA is designed to help students apply scientific knowledge outside of textbooks by planning, conducting, and evaluating their own experiments. Students were responsible for selecting a focused research question, identifying variables, collecting reliable data, and analysing their results using appropriate scientific methods.
Across the laboratory, a wide range of investigations took place. Some students explored the effects of environmental factors such as temperature and pH on cellular diffusion and enzyme activity, while others investigated topics related to photosynthesis and microbial growth. Each experiment required careful planning, precision, and strict attention to laboratory safety procedures.
The practical sessions gave students the opportunity to strengthen essential scientific skills, including data collection, critical thinking, problem-solving, and evaluation of experimental limitations. These are key components not only of the IB Biology course but also of scientific research in general.
Teachers were impressed by the level of independence and engagement shown throughout the week. Students demonstrated strong commitment to producing meaningful and well-controlled investigations, reflecting the inquiry-based learning approach that is central to the IB programme.
The IA practical work is a significant milestone for IB Biology students, contributing directly to their final assessment while also preparing them for future academic study in science-related fields. It was an exciting and productive week in the laboratory, showcasing both curiosity and scientific dedication.
Rossall School to Honour Kindertransport Legacy with New Garden of Reflection
Rossall School is set to commemorate a significant chapter in its history with the creation of a new Garden of Reflection, centred around a commemorative sculpture recognising three Jewish children who found refuge at the school during the Second World War.
The project follows a remarkable discovery by former pupils Juls Dawson and Caroline Apfel, who uncovered Rossall’s role in sheltering Kindertransport students Gerd Haag, Robert Augenfeld and Karl Schneider. These children were among those rescued through the Kindertransport, a rescue effort during the Kindertransport, which brought thousands of young people to safety in Britain.
In recognition of their story, a new sculpture will be installed in the school’s Hall Garden. It will serve as the focal point of the Garden of Reflection, a space designed to encourage remembrance, learning and contemplation for future generations.
The initiative has already received strong support from the Rossall community and beyond. Donations and purchases of commemorative plaques are helping to bring the project to life, ensuring that this important history remains visible and meaningful within the school environment.
Rossall School has expressed heartfelt thanks to all those who have contributed so far, noting that continued support is still welcomed. Contributions can be made through donations or by purchasing a plaque dedicated to the memorial.
To learn more about the Garden of Reflection click here.
To support the Garden of Reflection, donations are warmly welcome, click here.
This week, we were pleased to offer bereavement awareness training to a group of interested Year 12 students. Led by our school counsellor, the session explored how to recognise signs of grief in others, understand the different stages of grief, and consider appropriate ways to support those going through difficult times. This forms an important part of our wider PSHE curriculum, equipping students with the knowledge and empathy to support one another.
On Monday, we were also delighted to welcome Kim Hughes from the Street Life Trust during our senior school assembly. Following our “Sleeping Out” event in March, which raised over £1200 for Street Life, Kim spoke to students about the vital work the charity undertakes to support young people across the Blackpool community. It was a valuable opportunity for students to see the real impact of their efforts and understand how their contributions will make a difference.
Looking ahead, we are pleased to remind families that Dave Carlos will be joining us from Lancashire Constabulary on May 19th for our next Wellbeing Bridge. This session will focus on cyber safety. In connection with this, our parent guide explores the Online Safety Act, providing a clear overview of the act and how it aims to provide further protections for young people online. The guide also serves as a good reminder of our own responsibilities in the online world in terms of critically consuming media and reporting inappropriate content. To RSVP for the Wellbeing Bridge, please email j.moore@rossall.org.uk.
ways to be WELL AT ROSSALl
The Rossallian
Rossall School is delighted to share the latest edition of The Rossallian, click here to read. This is our school newspaper that celebrates life across both the Senior and Preparatory Schools. The publication highlights recent activities, achievements, and events that showcase the vibrancy of our community.
Available in both print and digital formats, this edition will be shared with alumni, parents, staff, friends of Rossall, and visiting families.
Thank you to everyone who contributed. We hope you enjoy reading the new issue!
