EDUCATIONAL CURRENT NEWS
RPS Families organising several workshops during Term 2
RPS Families is introducing a three‑part workshop series focused on key aspects of adolescence, led by psychologist Patricia Gutiérrez Albaladejo. The sessions will take place in the Richmond Park School auditorium, with the option to join online from home. These initiatives are part of a bigger picture programme which hopefully creates awareness and helps the parents in our community to understand and deal with some of day to day challenges regarding their children.
Workshop programme:
- Friday 6 February – Sexual Education: an integrated approach.
This session will explore adolescent sexuality, including the impact of pornography consumption, with the aim of helping families understand how young people shape their identity during this stage
- Friday 6 March – Mental Health: psychological challenges in adolescence
The workshop will focus on recognising risk and protective factors that teenagers should be aware of as they navigate the pressures and demands of this developmental period.
- Friday 20 March – Social media and screens: a family challenge
This final session will offer practical guidance for supporting young people in the responsible use of social media and digital devices, including the emerging role of AI in the lives of minors.
Patricia Gutiérrez Albaladejo is a psychologist, founder of Familiando, author of Descubre (tus) valores, and an associate lecturer at the Faculty of Psychology at the Autonomous University of Madrid. She previously delivered a highly valued workshop at the school last year, which received excellent feedback from attending families.
This initiative is organised and funded by RPS Families as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting the school community.
SCHOOL NEWS
RPS Vision, Mission and Values statement
Richmond Park School has completed an important reflective process aimed at strengthening the school’s culture and identity. Throughout last term, staff took part in discussions and questionnaires and students also contributed their perspectives, helping shape a shared understanding of the school’s direction.
After carefully reviewing all feedback and holding several staff meetings, the school is now ready to present its collective Vision, Mission and Values. These guiding principles will play a central role in future communications and will be featured prominently on the school’s website, helping define who Richmond Park School is and what it stands for.
Families will also begin to see these statements reflected across school documents and platforms, reinforcing their importance in daily school life.
Vision
“Richmond Park School aims to inspire every child to reach their full potential and become well-rounded, resilient, and compassionate global citizens who embrace change, contribute positively to society, and lead their lives with curiosity and integrity.”
Mission
“Our mission at Richmond Park School is to provide an engaging, holistic and personalised education that nurtures every child’s potential. We place each child at the centre of learning, fostering curiosity, critical thinking, resilience, and respect within a safe and supportive environment. Through a rich and varied curriculum, we promote high achievement, develop confidence and creativity, encourage empathy, nurture wellbeing and healthy lifestyles, and empower young people to discover their strengths and contribute positively as adaptable, compassionate global citizens in an ever-changing world.”
Values
R I C H M O N D – Richmond Park School Values
- Respect– Collaborating to treat everyone with dignity and empathy.
- Integrity – Acting ethically and responsibly in all we do.
- Community – Within RPS families and as local and global citizens promoting cultural awareness, sustainability, and social responsibility.
- High Standards – Striving for excellence in learning and behaviour.
- Mindset of Resilience – Using sport, enrichment activities and mindfulness to develop healthy bodies and minds, perseverance and adaptability.
- Openness and Inclusivity – Valuing diversity and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
- Nurturing Creativity – Fostering innovation and imaginative problem-solving.
- Developing Curiosity– Encouraging a love of learning and independent thinking.
RPS CEO and Executive Director of Secondary visiting BETT 2026
The CEO and the Executive Director of Secondary travelled to London last week to attend BETT 2026, one of the world’s leading education fairs, held from 22 to 24 January. As in previous years, the event drew exceptionally high attendance, with educators, innovators and policymakers from across the globe gathering to explore the future of learning.
BETT has long been recognised as a key meeting point for those shaping the academic landscape, and this year’s edition once again highlighted the rapid evolution of educational technology. Delegations from a wide range of countries were strongly represented, with Asian and Arab nations leading many of the most influential keynote sessions.
A dominant theme throughout the fair was the accelerating integration of new technologies -particularly artificial intelligence- into classrooms and learning environments. Exhibitors showcased advances in digital tools, adaptive learning platforms, and AI‑driven resources designed to support both teachers and students. Alongside this, visitors were able to explore the latest developments in educational furniture and classroom design, reflecting a growing emphasis on flexible, student‑centred spaces.
According to the leadership team, the overall message from BETT 2026 is clear: the education sector is moving decisively towards a future in which technology plays a central role in preparing young people for the professional world. With short‑ and medium‑term changes already underway, schools are expected to continue adapting to ensure students develop the digital skills and competencies needed for tomorrow’s careers.
WHAT IS HAPPENING IN EYFS?
Celebrating the people who help us at school
As part of our topic “People Who Help Us”, we have been learning about the important roles of the different people who work in our school. From the friendly secretary who greets visitors, to the hardworking cleaners and maintenance staff who keep our school safe and tidy, we discovered just how much they do to support our learning every day.
To deepen our understanding, we went on a tour of the school to meet these staff members and learn about their jobs. It was a great opportunity to see behind the scenes and appreciate the teamwork that makes our school run smoothly.
To show our gratitude, we created special thank-you cards for the staff members we’ve visited. This small gesture was our way of saying how much we value their help and dedication. Their smiles when receiving the cards reminded us how kindness can make a big difference!
As part of this exciting topic, the Director of Strategic Development also visited our Reception class! The children were thrilled to meet such an important member of the school team and asked many interesting questions. Ms. Puszti enjoyed seeing their curiosity and enthusiasm, and it was a wonderful moment that highlighted how eager our students are to learn about the people who help make our school a great place.
WHAT IS HAPPENING IN PRIMARY?
Trip Year 6 – Educación Vial
Last week the Year 6 children got to experience and learn about road safety when visiting the police. They got to learn about traffic light systems and how to cycle safely on the road. Children were able to develop their co-ordination skills on their bikes through an agility test weaving in and out of cones on a track.
The police were greatly knowledgeable and supportive of showing us the rules so that we can safely and confidently cycle on the roads in Madrid.
Trip Year 1 La Granja de los Cuentos
WHAT IS HAPPENING IN SECONDARY
On 18 December, the Secondary House Talent Show took place. This was a great celebration of our students’ talents, performance and communication skills.
There were 16 acts in total ranging from magic, to dance, music and technology. The whole show was presented by our IB CAS students, and even the teachers took part in their own musical item.
All the students who took part demonstrated dedication to our school community by bringing us together at Christmas time to celebrate one another. They also showed confidence though putting themselves outside their comfort zone. We are proud of them all.
Year 10 Netflix Film Pitch
This week, we had our “Netflix Film Pitch” with some of the year 10 IGCSE students involved in presenting a creative group project they prepared in December.
Four groups were chosen by their peers to go through to the final stage and present their original film plots, ideas, budgets, locations, casts, and film trailers. Each group delivered a professional pitch, mirroring the real-world film industry process and answered questions posed by our “Netflix Representatives”: Mr. Conway, Ms. De Gouttes, and Ms. Puszti.
After thoughtful questioning, discussion, and feedback by the board of representatives, the winning team was chosen. Well done to Erik, Ernesto, and Max on your success!
WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE IB CENTRE
‘10 Moments´ programme with Andrés Varela
As part of the school’s 10 Moments programme, IB students had the opportunity to welcome Mr Andres Varela for an engaging and insightful talk this month. The session aimed to offer pupils a genuine perspective on the key decisions involved in choosing a university course and shaping an early professional path. Mr Varela shared a wide range of personal experiences, from the challenges of entering the job market to the lessons learned throughout a varied career.
Students particularly appreciated the open and relatable tone of the talk, which encouraged active participation and thoughtful reflection. Anecdotes from Mr Varela’s professional journey sparked curiosity and prompted lively interaction among the IB cohort. The visit concluded with a highly enriching Q&A session, where pupils explored topics such as career motivation, adaptability, and long‑term growth. The school is delighted to continue offering opportunities that connect academic learning with real‑world experience.
SPORTS
RPS Alevín girls 12–0 Sacochamartín – Alevín girls deliver outstanding team display in big win
RPS Alevín Girls delivered a superb all-round performance to claim a dominant 12–0 victory, combining quality football with excellent teamwork throughout the match.
The girls played with confidence and freedom, moving the ball well and creating chances consistently. Valeria led the scoring with a hat-trick, while Vega, Ángela and Elena each added two goals. Further goals from Ana and Irene capped off a fantastic team display.
An excellent performance that showed both attacking quality and collective effort from start to finish.
RPS Benjamín 1–11 CEIP Nuria Espert – best start of the season shows real progress from Benjamín
Despite the scoreline, this was one of the most encouraging performances of the season from RPS Benjamín. The team made a brilliant start, pressing aggressively and taking the lead after just two minutes, forcing an own goal through hard work and intensity.
RPS kept the lead for five minutes and created chances to go 2–0, with shots just lacking power and accuracy—something to focus on in training this week. The opposition were extremely clinical, scoring with almost every shot they had.
The boys’ attitude and work rate were much improved, and that effort was rewarded with a penalty, unfortunately saved by the goalkeeper. Plenty of positives to take forward from a performance full of commitment and bravery.
RPS Alevín B 6–3 Asociación Alacrán 1997 – disciplined second half drives Alevín B to strong win
RPS Alevín B earned an excellent 6–3 victory, built on a dominant and far more controlled second-half display.
Goals came from Beltrán, Beltrán and Pablo, including a couple of superb strikes. During the first half, the team played with too much rush, giving the ball away unnecessarily. However, the response after the break was outstanding.
With better discipline, improved shape and more care in possession, Alevín B took control—conceding just once and scoring four times in the second half. A very strong reaction and a deserved win.
RPS Alevín A 6–2 E.F. Hortaleza B – performance in the second-half powers Alevín A to convincing victory
RPS Alevín A produced an excellent performance, particularly after the break, to secure a 6–2 win.
The standout moment of the first half came from Lucas, who made an outstanding penalty save to keep the team in control. From there, Alevín A stepped up their level in the second half, playing with confidence and intensity.
Guille led the scoring with a hat-trick, while Diego, Gabriel and Álvaro all added a goal each to round off a polished team display.
A strong, composed performance with quality at both ends of the pitch.
Good vibes!
One win and one loss in matchday number 5. The youngest team had no problem in defeating their opponent, with extensive rotation of minutes among all the players on our team. The slightly older team, in a first half without substitutions, played the best first half of the season, in which we were only 4 points behind a larger team with substitutions. In the second half, we ran out of steam.
Overall, the individual development of our players is on the right track, which is a prerequisite for good development of the team. Improvement is still needed. However, with patience and determination good progress is sure to follow.
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RPS Benjamín 5–11 KCS La Moraleja Sports Club – Benjamín show progress and spirit in rearranged school fixture
After Saturday’s match was called off due to the weather, RPS Benjamín finally got the game played on Thursday afternoon at school. Despite the 11–5 defeat, there were plenty of positives to take from the performance.
The team showed clear improvement in creating and taking chances, with goals from Vicente and Borja, plus two from Henry. Our new players included Gonzalo – who stepped in goal – and Nacho. Both made a big contribution and continue to settle in well.
The standout feature was the team spirit—every goal was celebrated together, with substitutes sprinting onto the pitch and parents roaring from the sidelines. A tough result, but a performance full of unity and growing confidence.
RPS Girls 2–2 Runnymede A – grit and determination earn girls a point in waterlogged draw
A hard-fought 2–2 draw for RPS Girls in extremely difficult conditions. The team found themselves 1–0 and 2–1 down, but showed great resilience to keep fighting back.
The pitch played a big part, with the ball repeatedly getting stuck in puddles, making it almost impossible to find a winning goal despite sustained pressure late on. Ana scored both goals, finishing calmly in challenging conditions.
A strong team performance full of effort, character and determination—sometimes the pitch just has the final say!
RPS Alevín B 5–5 L.S. Azul – late comeback seals dramatic draw for Alevín B
An action-packed match saw RPS Alevín B come away with a deserved 5–5 draw after showing real heart and determination. At one point the team was 4–2 down, but they responded brilliantly, matching the opposition’s aggression and intensity in the second half.
A tactical change to a more attacking setup paid off, allowing RPS to push higher and take risks, which were rewarded with a late equaliser. Beltrán R. scored a hat-trick, Beltrán F. added one, and William completed the scoring.
RPS Alevín A 3–2 Silvano FC – first-half brilliance sets Alevín A on course for victory
RPS Alevín A secured a 3–2 win thanks to an outstanding first-half performance full of quality and confidence.
Gabi scored twice, once with a great header and again after a slick team move, while Diego produced a moment of magic with a fantastic overhead kick to complete the scoring.
In the second half, Álvaro had a goal disallowed, but Alevín A stayed composed and managed the game well to see out a comfortable victory. A mature performance built on strong attacking play and control when it mattered.
RPS House Points
