RIBBLESDALE SCHOOL in Lancashire, Clitheroe

Education Centre Information: Ribblesdale School:

Establishment Type:Community School
Phase of Education: Secondary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Lancashire
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Does not have a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Does not apply
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 1283
Number of boys: 662
Number of girls: 621
Admissions: Modern
Age Range: 11-16
Gender: Mixed
View inspection reports

Background:

All pupils study the core subjects of the national curriculum and religious education for the five years of their school career and then most move into further education in other establishments, having taken up to nine subjects at GCSE level. Ribblesdale High was designated as a technology college in 1999. The school offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities from rock climbing to astronomy covering musical, sporting and other activities. The clubs are 'very popular' and often over-subscribed. Music is encouraged and the school has a new purpose-built expressive arts block comprising of a fully equipped recording studio, two teaching rooms, one of which is sound-proofed, and two practice rooms. There are regular friendly league and cup fixtures against local schools for both boys and girls in all the major sports and with some sports there is the 'opportunity to travel much further afield'. Pupils are given 'every opportunity and encouragement' to compete at area, county and possibly national level. Year 10 pupils have two weeks' work experience, which is linked to their personal, social and careers education programmes. Strong links are built up with the local environment and community by varied activities involving local business and community organisations. The school works closely with the East Lancashire Education Business Partnership in developing industrial links and enterprise education. The annual community curriculum week gives all pupils in Years 7 to 9 the opportunity to take part in off-timetable curriculum experiences linking local schools in a wide range of activities not possible during normal lesson structures. Pupils are encouraged to take part in many activities that bring them into contact with people in the community. Their gifts at harvest festival are delivered personally to senior citizens and regular visits are made to the residents of local sheltered accommodation.