Ripon Cathedral School Update

On Monday, we were delighted to welcome WonderDome to school. Although our photos capture moments of the session, they can’t quite convey the awe in the room. The children in Years 5 and 6 began sitting up, curious, and soon were lying back beneath a blanket of stars, transported on a cosmic journey. They explored how planets form, discovered how stars live and die, and followed the story of rockets venturing to new worlds. It was a day full of questions, wonder, and new space knowledge.

This week we held our termly ‘Superstars’ assemblies, with presentations from each of our classes along with the announcement of each class’s Superstar Pupil for the term. We started on Tuesday with EYFS and KS1, who showed off beautiful artwork, poems and rhymes as part of their class performance. On Wednesday, KS2 showcased a video compilation of their History learning, some incredible writing, a song with actions and some reflections on their highlights of the term so far. At each assembly, the Superstars were presented with a frame containing a photo montage and a write-up of all the reasons they were chosen for the award.

Nursery – the prize was given to Elsie “in recognition of her consistently wonderful attitude and dedication to her work. Her kindness shines through every day, as she treats others with care, warmth, love and respect.”

Reception – Oliver C received the award for being “an aspiring and flourishing learner who brings a loving attitude to everything he does. He approaches each day with enthusiasm, kindness, and a genuine excitement for learning.”

Year 1 – The award went to Edie who had “grown so much over the last term, showing resilience that shines through in everything she does and confidence that continues to blossom. She has truly settled into Year 1 and spreads so much happiness and warmth each day.”

Year 2 – Lexi was Year 2’s Superstar, being “exceptionally deserving of recognition for the positive impact she brings to the classroom every single day. She consistently sets a fantastic example for her peers through both her behaviour and her attitude to learning.”

Year 3 – The Year 3 Superstar was Amelia, and “what a fantastic change we have seen in Amelia this term. She has developed an amazing attitude to her learning and has been working extra hard in lessons. Amelia has been focused on improving her presentation and handwriting.”

Year 4 – Alice was Year 4’s prize winner for showing “truly impressive growth this term. She is now applying herself with enthusiasm, pushing herself to tackle new challenges and showing real determination to improve her work.”

Year 5 – Well done to the Year 5 Superstar, Hugo, who “has had a fantastic term in Year 5. He has developed a highly focused attitude to his learning, always trying his best and approaching tasks with enthusiasm. He listens carefully and is beginning to act more carefully on advice in order to improve his work even further.”

Year 6 – Jeffrey was the Year 6 Superstar and was chosen for “his positive, can-do attitude towards his learning. He listens carefully to everything that is said, takes on advice and feedback and works hard to improve across the curriculum – even in subjects that aren’t his favourite.”

Thank you to all who joined us for the Christmas Fair yesterday, organised by the Friends of the School. We were delighted to see so many families visiting the stalls, many of which were run by pupils from each of the classes. Games taking place included ‘Splat the Rat’, ‘Find the Snowman’s Nose’ and ‘Guess the name of the teddy’. The choir opened the Fair with a performance of carols beside the Christmas tree. Then – the highlight of Fair – Santa arrived! Thank you once again for your support.

The hampers look wonderful, thank you for all the prizes and for buying tickets. Thank you for being patient as we became so busy at the fair, we didn't have time to draw the raffles! We will announce prize winners early next week.

Thank you of course to everyone who worked hard to make the fair a big success, including staff, children and lots of wonderful volunteers. Apologies if we have missed anyone, but special thanks must go to Ellie for all her baking and Felicity and Wayne for working so hard to make the fair happen.

Our Friends fundraising this academic year will help to fund the refurbishment of our school library to create an inviting and enjoyable space for all children to use. We will reveal the total raised at the Christmas Fair in due course.

Congratulations to our Stars of the Week celebrated in today's worship:

Nursery - Ronnie for growing in confidence, and being a more independent learner. Well done Ronnie!

Reception - Natalie for showing fantastic growth in confidence! this week Natalie has been sharing her ideas with enthusiasm. It has been wonderful to see her speak up, contribute thoughtfully, and take pride in what she has to say

Year 1 - Axel for his knowledge and understanding in geography. Axel has wowed us all when recalling the continents and oceans and he loves singing the songs to help him remember. This topic has really brought out his confidence.

Year 2 - Iris for taking on the responsibility of an extra part in the nativity last minute, learning the actions, cues and lines brilliantly.

Year 3 - Edward for settling in to the class so well, having a super attitude to his learning and getting stuck into every task! We are very happy you found us!

Year 4 - Sophia for wonderful effort with your learning this week, striving to do your best.

Year 5 - James for amazing contributions in maths. We have really noticed a big step up in your work and your ideas. You have been thinking deeply!

Year 6 - Mikael for working systematically in maths and for playing an active part in all lessons.

Wednesday 10th December - 2pm Christingle Service at the Cathedral – KS2

Monday 15th December - 1.30pm Nativity Performance 1 at the Cathedral – EYFS and KS1

Monday 15th December - 4pm Nativity Performance 2 at the Cathedral – EYFS and KS1

Wednesday 17th December - School Christmas Lunch

Friday 19th December - School closes for Christmas holidays

Ripon Concerts is delighted to share an exciting opportunity for your students and families. On Sunday 14 December at 3pm, the internationally acclaimed jazz pianist David Gordon, together with his trio, will be performing at Holy Trinity Church, Ripon.

Our concert will begin with performances by two talented young musicians from Thirsk School and Ripon Grammar School, showcasing exceptional local talent and setting the stage for an inspiring afternoon of music.

Described by The Independent on Sunday as “a richly gifted player with a sparkling style and boundless imagination,” David Gordon is known for his engaging performances, inventive improvisation, and approachable style that resonates with young musicians and listeners alike. The concert will feature an uplifting mix of jazz favourites—plus a few festive surprises!

To support music education locally, we are pleased to offer free tickets for students and families from your school. Thanks to the generosity of a local sponsor, two FREE tickets are offered for all adults accompanying an under 18, making this an affordable festive treat for local families.

We hope this will be an inspiring musical experience for your students, whether they are budding performers or simply enjoy exploring new musical styles.

Free tickets should be booked via our website www.riponconcerts.co.uk.

Email: admin@riponcathedral.n-yorks.sch.uk
Website: www.riponcathedralschool.org.uk
Location: HG41LT, United Kingdom
Phone: 01765 602355
Facebook: facebook.com/riponcathschool