IT IS the Hampshire town school which can speak more than 50 languages

The Romsey School on Greatbridge Road currently has a total of 1,200 pupils who can collectively speak more than 50 different first languages.

Colm McKavanagh, the school’s headteacher, explained that the diversity is unusual from a school in a small town.

He said: “It is very unusual I think to have some much diversity in a school in a small town such as Romsey but the kids are very proud of that. They see it as an opportunity to take a look into other cultures.

“The Romsey School has a strong emphasis on the traditional values of hard work, honesty, responsibility and respect for others.”

The school recently celebrated its 60th anniversary with a summer party which attracted more that 600 guests including a visit from the town’s MP Caroline Nokes.

The school commemorated the event with music, poetry, art and a barbecue, as well as a visit from the oldest known pupil to attend the school when it first opened.

Colm added: “It was a wonderful day.

“It was one of those evenings where you think this is how a school should support its community.”

The school’s last Ofsted report was in 2017 where they were rated ‘good’.

The Romsey School is also working closely with Chelsea FC Foundation Education Programmes regarding the Learn to Coach Programme.

Headteacher Colm McKavanagh

This is a highly successful and popular school with high expectations of pupils, staff, parents and governors and we work in close partnership to ensure that everyone strives to give their best.

The student body is culturally diverse, they are genuinely proud of their school and work closely with staff and parents to maximise their personal development and academic achievement.

They have significant opportunities to contribute to the development of the school, and this was recognised in our recent Ofsted report.

Ofsted, in its report in 2017, said; “Pupils seize the opportunities that the school gives them to develop their leadership potential.” For example, student leaders have the opportunity to discuss the school’s strategic plan with leaders.

Pastoral care is exemplary and leaders from other schools often visit to find out how we support children and families.

By treating pupils as individuals and building on their personal strengths, we aim to prepare them to contribute positively to the wider community.

There is a strong emphasis on the arts as well as the traditional academic subjects.

We aim to develop an enthusiasm for learning, which we hope they will carry into adult life.

Education at The Romsey School is changed considerably in the past 60 years but the culture of caring for one another remains.