Welcome

Dear Parent/Guardian

It is a great privilege for me as Headteacher to welcome you to St Richard Gwyn Catholic High School.

St Richard Gwyn is an 11 - 16 voluntary aided Catholic High School which serves the five parishes of the Vale of Glamorgan. Our catchment area extends from Penarth in the east, through Barry, Cowbridge and the rural Vale as far as Llantwit Major in the west. Also, a small number of our pupils travel from outside the geographical boundaries of the Vale. We are the only Faith Based Secondary in the Vale of Glamorgan.

The central aim of the school as expressed in our mission statement is 'to improve the first class education, development and high achievement of our pupils. This will be in a calm, disciplined and caring environment where relationships are based on Catholic values for all pupils, staff, parents and governors.'

The school has grown rapidly in recent years and is now larger than it has ever been. There are currently 608 pupils on roll and we are oversubscribed. The number of applications received is far greater than the number of places available. The growth in numbers reflects our recent success and growing reputation as a high performing institution. The growth in numbers has predominantly come from families from a range of faith backgrounds, who are seeking a faith based environment for their child's education.

We are proud of our size. It enables us to provide a personal touch so often missing in larger schools. It means we can create a caring and disciplined community which focuses on teaching and learning. Our strong and effective pastoral system is a recognised strength of the school. Pupils and staff get to know each other well. Strong relationships are built which we feel is conducive to effective learning. We are open and responsive to parents' concern which enables many parents to actively support their children's learning.

The school has benefited from a £2.2 million building programme completed in 2004. A major refurbishment of the original part of the school also took place in 2007.

I am fortunate in that I am supported in my work by a committed and friendly staff numbering 34 teachers and
15 support staff, including a full time chaplain. Many of our staff are often asked to speak to other schools about the work they are doing. Governors are also very supportive and have a genuine interest in raising standards still further.

This is a very good school. If you are interested in learning more then please do not hesitate to contact us. Informal visits and parental tours can be arranged on request.

Mike Clinch
Headteacher