Fresh faces step into key boarding roles at RGS

A NEW group of student leaders has been selected to represent the boarding community at Ripon Grammar School, with four Year 12 students stepping into senior and deputy roles.

The newly appointed team will work alongside boarding staff over the coming year, focusing on strengthening community ties and introducing ideas to enhance day-to-day life for boarders.

Head of girls’ boarding, Oriana Panetta, joined the school from Dubai and has both English and Italian heritage.

She hopes to strengthen the sense of belonging within boarding and ensure it is a positive experience for all students, and says she is particularly keen to support international boarders and to build on the school’s inclusive environment

Alongside her academic studies the 17-year-old is actively involved in volunteering, working with Year 1 pupils at Holy Trinity Primary School and supporting a Year 7 English class at RGS.

She also plays a role in welcoming prospective students through school and boarding tours.

Her achievements include a bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award, a bronze LAMDA qualification, and grade 6 piano.

Head of boys’ boarding Joseph Reedman moved to the UK from the Netherlands.

In his new role, he aims to encourage stronger connections across the boarding houses and introduce a buddy system to support younger students as they settle in.

He was motivated to apply after experiencing the welcoming atmosphere created by previous student leaders, he said.

The 17-year-old, who intends to study engineering at university, has contributed to school life through mentoring, supporting both Year 11 and Year 7 students in maths.

He is currently a form captain and has helped organise activities aimed at developing teamwork among junior boarders.

Ruby Dilworth, named deputy head of girls’ boarding, is looking forward to contributing to the boarding community by representing student perspectives and supporting ongoing developments.

She comes from the village of Bellerby in Wensleydale and is considering her options for the future, including university and a potential gap year.

Having completed her bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award and currently working towards gold, Ruby competed in swimming for several years and continues to take part in sport at school.

Deputy head of boys’ boarding, Sydney Wild, 17, from Harrogate, has attended Ripon Grammar School since Year 7 and plans to study law at university.

In his new position, he hopes to help shape a positive boarding environment and ensure students feel their views are recognised.

Sydney has been involved in mentoring younger students, including assisting in Year 7 lessons and providing academic support. His achievements include being elected form captain in Year 11 and achieving grade 8 piano.