ROSSALL NEWS
Community Notices
Exciting opportunity to visit Krakow
Dates for your Diary
Events
Open Day Information
IBDP Theory of Knowledge Students Showcase Research
Remember & Reflect
Rossall Pupils Shine in a Spectacular Evening at Rossall’s Got Talent
Rossallian Family Carol Service - Sunday 7th December at 5.00pm
Rossall's Movember Campaign
Staff Milestone Awards
Rossall’s Christmas Cheer with Coffee and Calendars
Centre Stage at Rossall
Headmaster’s Awards
Nina’s Global Journey: From IB Graduate to Baret Scholar
Da Vinci Academy
Saturday Broadway Academy
Ways to be Well at Rossall
With Love From Chapel
The Rossallian
IN THIS ISSUE
PRE-PREP & PREP SCHOOL NEWSLETTER
Parent Introductory Evening
Click here to view our Parent Introductory Evening presentation.
COMMUNITY NOTICES
Exciting opportunity to visit Krakow
CLICK HERE to view the official letter.
The History & Politics Department are excited to propose a school tour to Kraków, Poland in February 2027. This is a general cultural learning experience, but it supports our current Year 9 HPQ studies of the Holocaust and our curriculum plans for Y10 GCSE History. It aligns with the AQA GCSE History Paper 1: Germany 1890-1945 component, as well as for A-Level History and Politics topics. We have run this visit previously, last in 2019, and it is an extremely valuable experience.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Astronomy Talk with Dr Lister - Monday 1st December, 7pm - 8:30pm
‘Carols in the Square’ - Friday 5th December, 5:30pm - 7pm
Cinderella - Friday 5th December, 7pm - 8pm
Broadway Does Broadway - Saturday 6th December, 7pm - 8pm
The Old Rossallian Christmas Carol Service - Friday 19th December, 5pm - 7pm
OPEN DAY - Saturday 21st March 2026
Choosing a school is a significant family decision and we want to give all prospective pupils and their families an opportunity to experience all that Rossall has to offer.
We want you to know that this is the right school for you and your child.
An Open Day at Rossall provides an insight into the vibrant and varied life of our wonderful community.
You will be able to visit any departments or specialist programmes your child is interested in and talk directly with both staff and students who will be there to answer any questions.
Students in the IBDP Theory of Knowledge course have been exploring a wide range of issues related to the production and acquisition of knowledge. Their recent presentations in the Sumner Library highlighted both the depth of their understanding and the enthusiasm they bring to complex ideas.
During the session, students shared their research on two central questions: “Can art change the way we see the world?” and “How might the existence of different historical perspectives be beneficial to historical knowledge?” Their thoughtful approaches demonstrated a strong grasp of the philosophical and analytical skills that lie at the heart of the Theory of Knowledge curriculum.
The level of engagement with such challenging topics was inspiring and reflected the intellectual curiosity that is encouraged throughout the IBDP programme at Rossall School.
IBDP Theory of Knowledge Students Showcase Research
Rossall Pupils Shine in a Spectacular Evening at Rossall’s Got Talent
Rossall School buzzed with excitement on Saturday as pupils from all years took part in Rossall’s Got Talent. The event showcased a wide range of performances, from classical singing to dance routines and drum solos. A standout moment came from the candlelit Sixth Form Choir.
Jayden F won this year’s competition with an emotional performance of Waving Through the Window, earning high praise from the judges.
Congratulations to all performers for their talent and enthusiasm, and thank you to the staff and students who supported the event behind the scenes. Special recognition goes to Blossom M and Sophie T, whose outstanding organisation and dedication helped make the evening such a success. The warm and energetic audience made the night truly memorable, reflecting the strong community spirit at Rossall.
Read more here.
remember & reflect
At Rossall School Chapel, we gathered for a beautiful and deeply meaningful evening that wove together chaplaincy and wellbeing in a gentle, supportive space. The event invited us to pause, remember, and reflect—honouring those we have lost, offering compassion to those who are struggling, and holding close the memory of those we miss in any form. Through quiet moments, shared silence, and a sense of community, the evening encouraged everyone present to acknowledge their experiences with empathy and hope, reminding us of the strength that comes from coming together in reflection and care.
Week 4 of Movember - So far we have raised £1,608…and counting!
Mr David Clark, Director of Professional Development, Head of History & Politics
Mr Michael Holdsworth, Director of Performance Studies
Mr Daniel Hopwood, Head of Design & Technology
Mr Andrew Veitch, Assistant Director of Sixth Form and Teacher of English and Drama
Mr Matthew Hall, Head of Geography
ROSSALL’S MOVEMBER CAMPAIGN - ‘CHANGING THE FACE OF MEN’S HEALTH’
Movember is now in Week 4, and the school is filled with an impressive variety of moustaches, each serving as a reminder of the importance of men’s health and wellbeing. Mr. Clark shared his personal experience with cancer to emphasise the value of speaking up, checking in and taking care of ourselves. Movember is not only about growing moustaches but also about raising awareness, showing courage and supporting one another. Thanks to the generosity of our community, an outstanding £1,608 has been raised so far.
“I am writing from experience, as nearly 15 years ago, in the spring of 2011, I noticed something not quite right. I was not in any pain, and I thought and hoped that it was nothing. But after a spate of worrying, I eventually relented, did the right thing, and went to see the doctor. It was then that I got the news that it was something, that it was testicular cancer. Thankfully, because I had caught it early, I had treatment and made a full recovery, being given the all-clear in 2017. Even so, this was a very sobering time for me, and it is something that has often been on my mind. What if I hadn’t spoken to friends and family? What if I hadn’t relented and sought advice from the doctor?”
To read Mr Clark’s full blog, please click here, to donate click here.
- Mr David Clark, Director of Professional Development, Head of History & Politics
We are delighted to invite all students and their families to the Rossallian Family Carol Service 2025. Join us on Sunday 7 December at 5.00pm in the Chapel of St John the Baptist for an evening filled with festive music, candlelight and the joy of coming together as a community. This much loved celebration is a wonderful way to begin the Christmas season and we look forward to sharing the magic of traditional carols and readings with you.
Come wrapped up warm, ready to sing and ready to enjoy the spirit of Christmas at Rossall. Click here to register your interest.
Rossallian family carol service - Sunday 7th December at 5.00pm
Jackie Smith - 45 Years
Doris Dohmen - 25 Years
Emma Williams - 25 Years
Anthony Fairhurst - 25 Years
Thomas Mcnab - 20 Years
Timothy Hayes - 15 Years
Donna Richardson - 15 Years
Michael Kelly - 15 Years
Alison Burgess - 10 Years
Lee Cox - 10 Years
Nicola Gregory - 10 Years
Jennifer Smethurst - 5 Years
Sharon Wright - 5 Years
Jennifer Richardson - 5 Years
Mari-Ann Farrell-Villalba - 5 Years
Phillip Mallaband - 5 Years
Andrew Veitch - 5 Years
Julie Stevens - 5 Years
Ralitsa Zheleva - 5 Years
STAFF mILESTONE AWARDS
We are proud to celebrate our staff milestone awards, which honor the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our team members. Each milestone represents not only years of service, but also countless contributions that have helped shape our success. We are truly grateful for the passion, resilience, and excellence our staff bring every day, and these awards serve as a heartfelt thank-you for their continued impact and loyalty.
Rossall’s Christmas Cheer with Coffee and Calendars
Searching for the perfect Christmas present? Treat someone special to one of our adorable Dogs of Rossall calendars. Each month features a familiar furry face guaranteed to brighten even the chilliest winter morning.
For the coffee connoisseur in your life, our Rossall Roast coffee beans are a delicious way to start the day. Rich, smooth and wonderfully warming. Even better, Rossall Roast is currently on special offer. It was £9 and is now £7.50. Calendars are £4.50.
Both are available from the RosShop or by emailing rosshop@rossall.org.uk to arrange your Christmas purchases.
centre stage at rossall
An exciting season of performing arts is underway at Rossall, with upcoming productions including Rossall’s Got Talent and our vibrant staging of Footloose. Our pupils are working hard in rehearsals and their talent, enthusiasm and dedication are already shining through.
From singers and dancers to musicians, actors and backstage teams, every student plays an important part in bringing these performances to life. Both shows promise energy, creativity and memorable moments.
Tickets are limited, so make sure to book soon. You can view our upcoming events here.
Rossall Headmaster Awards: Celebrating Academic Excellence
Rossall Citizen Award – Sofiia (Wren House)
When the Marketing team member scheduled to photograph Rossall’s Got Talent fell ill at the last minute, we turned to our Sixth Form for support. Within minutes, Sophia stepped forward without hesitation. Instead of enjoying the show from the audience, she spent the entire evening capturing moments both on stage and behind the scenes. Her professionalism and enthusiasm ensured that the magic of the night was preserved for our whole community. Her willingness to serve at short notice reflects true Rossallian citizenship.
Rossall Academic Award – Siraj (Pelican House)
This award recognises Siraj for his initiative and commitment to supporting younger students. He volunteered to design and deliver a revision workshop for the entire Year 11 cohort, focusing particularly on preparing for Science assessments. Developing his concept through thoughtful discussion Siraj transformed a simple idea into a meaningful academic support programme. His proactive approach and desire to help others prepare for their trial exams embody academic leadership at its finest.
Rossall Academic Award – Archie (Spread Eagle House)
Archie is an exceptionally dedicated and conscientious student who consistently produces work of the highest standard reflecting his strong work ethic, focus, and growing academic confidence. Archie approaches every lesson with maturity and genuine commitment to his studies, making him a thoroughly deserving recipient of this Headmaster’s Award.
Well done Sofiia, Siraj and Archie!!!
Nina’s Global Journey: From IB Graduate to Baret Scholar
Baret’s promise to live by the slogan of providing their students with “their best year yet” has been more than fulfilled. In the span of three months, I talked to Nobel prize winners, filmmakers, politicians, social impact investors and much more.
Living and exploring the world across three different cities so far - New York, Sao Paulo and Paris is complemented with week-long fellowships in Washington, DC, Buenos Aires and soon London. As a member of a 55 students cohort, coming from 37 countries ( proudly representing Poland) I have had the opportunity to observe the community and the environment around me in an unique way.
As the leader of content and writing of student-led “Etoile Magazine” at Baret Scholars, I have had the chance to reflect on the offered events more closely. With the program comprising of the following key pillars - Morning Program (everyday lectures in a form of TED talks where invited speakers share about their professions and journey), Afternoon Options (extracurriculars covering the themes of filmmaking, politics, creative writing and innovation) and individual exploration I have raised an argument regarding the Morning Program claiming that “thanks to the speakers’ willingness to share their key life lessons, every Scholar can infer something for themselves and all the journal pages filled during these talks should constitute proof. Thus, I would argue that at Baret, the impact of the Morning Program should be measured in the amount of pages written by the cohort.”
There truly is a magic in writing notes and asking questions. Moreover there is magic in confidence which is enhanced within each Scholar throughout this intensive year of exploration and study.
WELLBEING AT ROSSALL
Congratulations to our newest cohort of staff who completed their Youth Mental Health First Aid training this week - it was wonderful to see both academic and support staff at the training, demonstrating the strong commitment all adults at Rossall have to the wellbeing of our community. The course itself is a wonderful tool to help recognise and support young people who might be struggling with mental health, and it offers important ideas for signposting as well. However, it was the conversations with colleagues which were truly invaluable. It is a special opportunity to be given time to delve deeply into mental health scenarios and share ideas about best practice - this course gives the space to do so.
Linking to mental health best practice, on Wednesday evening we had a beautiful evening in the memorial chapel where we combined chaplaincy and wellbeing to remember and reflect. Staff and students joined together to honour those lost, those struggling, and those we miss in any form. We listened to music, shared poetry, and created a memorial with wishes and memories - all over hot chocolate and biscuits. Moments like these remind me how truly fortunate we are to be a part of such a compassionate community.
with love from chapel
Christmas is great, isn’t it?
Yesterday, we had our first Christmas Congers; and there was some serious volume in the chapel. It was an amazing sound and great fun - and Rose House sang beautifully enough to win the Congers Cup.
Today we had a visit from Rev Andrew Downes and …from the Fleetwood Churches, who came in to talk to us about The Pantry in Fleetwood. We found out just how many people in our neighbourhood are struggling this Christmas and rely on the food they can pick up from the Pantry, but also how many people donate and volunteer and how much good they can do with it. We also learnt how much more help is needed to make sure those in need are looked after - especially at Christmas!
Over the next week, our 9 houses will build gingerbread houses, which will be auctioned off after our Family Carol Service (Dolphin won ‘best house’ two years in a row). All proceeds will be going to the Pantry.
In our last week of term, we will have our Christmas Jumper Day, where the Charity Committee will ask for food donations instead of money - these, too, will go to the Pantry.
So during your next shop, make sure you put that extra tin of beans in your trolley, and maybe add the Family Carol Service to your diary. Let’s make sure the shelves in the Pantry are stacked full this Christmas! Because Christmas is great, isn’t it.
With love from the chapel,
Mrs Dixon
We are delighted to be working on the next edition of The Rossallian, our school newspaper that has become an integral part of Rossall School. This publication serves as a wonderful showcase of the exciting range of activities, events, and opportunities our pupils enjoy across both the senior and preparatory school. We are excited to continue sharing our community’s experiences and achievements with you.
Once again, The Rossallian will be available in both print and digital formats, reaching alumni, parents, staff, and friends of Rossall, as well as prospective families at open days and visits.
To support this initiative at no cost to the school, we are once again partnered with Timesed Ltd to invite a selection of high-quality local and regional businesses to advertise in our newspaper. We are grateful to those who have already participated and helped to make this publication possible.
As valued members of our school community, we want to ensure you have the first opportunity to take part. If you would like to learn more about advertising options within The Rossallian, please contact Carl Huyton directly at carl.huyton@times-ed.co.uk. Carl will also be reaching out to other local businesses in the coming weeks.
Thank you for your continued support in making The Rossallian a valuable and engaging publication for the Rossall community.
