Rothesay Netherwood School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
Curriculum approach at RNS: Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
RNS has a Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
RNS has a International Baccalaureate approach to supplementary curriculum.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
International curriculum & programs at RNS: Duke of Edinburgh's Award
What RNS says about their overall curriculum and approach:
The academic program at Rothesay Netherwood School is diverse and challenging; it is designed to meet the changing needs of students as they develop intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Students have the opportunity to live and study in an environment where intellectual curiosity and academic achievement are highly valued. This rich learning environment is created through the combined efforts of the school's faculty, students, parents, alumni, the board of directors and governors. Small class size, highly qualified and caring teachers, extra help, compulsory study, and frequent reporting facilitate the students' learning The academic program of RNS is designed for students to experience courses in both the humanities and the sciences. In addition to the obvious academic rigor provided through the International Baccalaureate's Diploma Program, there is also ample opportunity to develop the whole student. These opportunities exist in the arts, athletics, and the various other extracurricular experiences such as local service projects, Duke of Edinburgh awards, student exchanges, and Round Square International Service programs..
International Baccalaureate program(s) offered
Program | Offered |
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Primary Years | |
Middle Years | |
Diploma program | |
Career-related program |
Approach
Focus |
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Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at RNS: Equal Balance
RNS has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What RNS says:
Mathematics at Rothesay Netherwood School is an ever evolving program that is student-centred with a focus on collaboration and critical thinking. We aim to challenge our students by encouraging them to seek a deep understanding of the curriculum through inquiry in order that they may make connections to the world around them. Our students are introduced to mathematical concepts in diverse ways through teacher-led instruction, online platforms, or in an array of projects, that continue to promote creativity and collaboration. We aim to develop a foundation of content with a more student centred approach that focuses on being an independent learner. It is less teacher led instruction and more student orientated learning which allows for individual pacing and fosters growth in the classroom. This provides our students a healthy mix of traditional math as well as a discovery based approach to promote critical thinking.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
The textbooks used at Rothesay Netherwood School for mathematical instruction are “ Mathematics for the international student” by Haese and Harris publications. The middle school books follow the MYP IB program and the senior school books follow the IB curriculum.
Calculator policy:
Our calculator policy at Rothesay Netherwood School is a scientific calculator in the middle school while a graphing calculator is required once students enter senior school. The required graphing calculator is a (Texas Instruments) TI-84.
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Writing
Writing approach at RNS: Process approach
RNS has a Process approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Equal balance approach).
[Show: About Process approach?]What RNS says:
Students explore writing in multiple formats with a significant emphasis on revision and feedback. The process of writing is a balance of formal and creative avenues which allows students to harness their imagination, and also the more structured approach to exploring their ideas. Students produce work that is internally published and this ranges from short stories to magazine style publications. It is especially linked to their explorations in Social Studies where students learn about the research and writing process.
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Science
Science approach at RNS: Equal Balance
RNS has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
The science program is heavily focused on Inquiry based learning in the Middle School and becomes a more Equally Balanced program in the senior years. We strive to develop students who think critically, work collaboratively to solve problems and become curious learners that are capable of asking challenging questions. Students gain hands-on experience through experimental design, data collection, creating models and participating in larger group projects within the school and global community. The curriculum for grades 6 through 10 is comprehensive and prepares students to move into the IB program in grade 11. We feel it is important to provide a diverse education that gives students the foundation to have success in all academic pursuits. As such, we focus on the development of universal skills that allow our students to conduct research, analyze data and graphs and become organized and logical problem solvers.
Treatment of evolution:
Subject Offered Evolution as consensus theory Evolution as one of many equally viable theories Evolution is not taught Topics covered in curriculum:
Subject Offered Biology Chemistry Ecology Geology Meteorology Physics Physiology Zoology Literature
Literature approach at RNS: Equal Balance
RNS has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What RNS says:
We do maintain, to some extent, a traditional approach to literature as we work to decode the mechanics of the text while also understanding its historical context. Ideas are often formed and expressed through formal class discussions and critical essays. At the same time, we foster an awareness for the individual experience of literature as an expression of self. Both classic and contemporary literature form the foundation of larger societal explorations, as students work to understand their complicated relationship to larger societal forces. Learning is often creatively expressed and cultivated through a reflective practice, as well as cooperative and project based initiatives.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
Social Studies approach at RNS: Thematic
RNS has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).
[Show: About Thematic?]What RNS says:
This program is module based where students explore three themes over the course of the academic year. These themes are designed to collaborate with their English program to permit cross-curricular enrichment. Over the past few years, the students have explored agriculture (past, present and future), human migration and the collision of cultures (local First Nations and European history). Students focus on immersing themselves in the theme through field trips, guest speakers, writing and research. Each module is centered around a large project which can range from the creation of a professional magazine publication to planning and hosting a museum night for the school and wider community.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at RNS: Equal Balance
RNS has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What RNS says:
The mission of the Social Sciences at Rothesay Netherwood School is to advance knowledge, promote inquiry and to cultivate independent and creative thinking in our students. Our program represents a balance of periennalism and pragmatism. It is our goal that students will engage with the past and their world not only to uncover the catalyst, course, and consequence of dynamics resulting in change but also how such an investigation can impact their current lives. The humanities give critical insight into aspects of thought, values, and achievement in all times and places. Such a holistic and balanced view is critical to citizens of the 21st century. A primary focus is on the acquisition, refinement, and expression of a broad scope of literacy skills leading to an individual capable of creative, rational, and compassionate thought.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at RNS: Equal Balance
RNS has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What RNS says:
The Rothesay Netherwood School Modern Language Department offers students the opportunity to begin, improve upon, or master a second language by building upon their current level of knowledge, and challenging them to attain the goal of fluency. Our curriculum is student-centered, and intended to foster intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, independent enquiry and a love of languages and the cultures of the countries from whence they come. Students are challenged to achieve their highest personal standards in terms of communication and personal expression in a second language.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Fine Arts approach at RNS: Creative
RNS has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Creative?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What RNS says:
The fine arts program is designed to foster the development of creativity and individual student growth through the integration of history and theory with musical, theatrical and visual arts production. Students are met with a variety of opportunities to challenge their own learning through traditional, student-guided, individual and collaborative tasks. Students are encouraged to be risk-takers, develop their natural curiosity as inquirers and an appreciation for elements of their own culture as well as an openness to the values, perspectives and traditions of others. In addition to classroom based learning, productions, performances and exhibitions play a vital role in our program and help our students to develop both confidence and a passion for the arts.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at RNS: Heavy integration
RNS has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What RNS says:
Information technology is integrated into the learning process throughout the curriculum. As a one-to-one laptop computer environment, students and teacher alike use their computers as integral tools in their daily work.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What RNS says:
Physical Health & Education is a program of instruction and activity that develops skills and attitudes towards a healthy active lifestyle. This enables each student to enter an interscholastic program with more confidence in his/her self and abilities. The program objectives are to develop skills, self‐discipline, improved judgment, improved self‐confidence, peer relationships, more active lifestyles, an appreciation of physical activities that are part of our culture, improved physical fitness (stamina, strength and flexibility) and health promotion (weight regulation, stress reduction, reduced risk of heart disease). Physical Education is required for Grades 6 - 9, and is offered as an elective in Grade 10.
IB Diploma courses
Group 1 (Language A)
- English Literature SL
- English Literature HL
- Literature and Performance SL
Group 2 (Language B)
- French SL
- French HL
- French ab initio SL
- Spanish ab initio SL
Group 3 (Individuals and Societies)
- Economics SL
- Geography SL
- Geography HL
- History SL
- History HL
- Information Technology in a Global Society SL
- Information Technology in a Global Society HL
Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)
- Chemistry SL
- Chemistry HL
- Biology SL
- Biology HL
- Physics SL
- Physics HL
- Environmental Systems SL
Group 5 (Mathematics)
- Mathematical Studies SL
- Mathematics SL
- Mathematics HL
Group 6 (The Arts)
- Music SL
- Music HL
- Theatre SL
- Theatre HL
- Visual Arts SL
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at RNS: Not New Brunswick curriculum
RNS has a Not New Brunswick curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
[Show: About Not New Brunswick curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
RNS has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What RNS says:
Sex-ed is taught formally within the Physical Education curriculum, and informally within the middle school and high school science curriculum.
Language
Learn about Rothesay Netherwood School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
RNS offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Online Learning
Rothesay Netherwood School's online learning approach and offerings. Learn about this school's online programs and courses offered, its course formats, and its teaching and learning approaches.
Rothesay Netherwood School offers online courses to students.
Course format
Type | Offered |
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Distance | |
Asynchronous | |
Synchronous |
Academic support and services
Type | Offered |
---|---|
Dedicated teacher per course | |
Exam proctoring | |
Student progress tracker | |
Regular office hours | |
Additional support | |
Study groups | |
Special needs support |
Curriculum Pace
Curriculum Pace approach at RNS: Standard-enriched
RNS has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
What RNS says about their curriculum pace:
A broader range of topics are covered in more depth, relative to the Atllantic Canadian and Ontario curriculum guidelines.
Flexible pacing style
Type | Offered |
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Subject-streaming (tracking) | |
Multi-age classrooms as standard | |
Ability-grouping (in-class) as common | |
Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace) | |
Regular guided independent study opportunities | |
Differentiated assessment |
What RNS says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
Academic Culture approach at RNS: Supportive
RNS has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
What RNS says about their academic culture:
The academic program at RNS is challenging and comprehensive, yet flexible enough to accommodate all of our students. Providing the necessary support for students to succeed is the hallmark of an RNS education. Effort is highly valued as the evaluation of one's academic performance is tied directly to their level of effort. As students progress through our program, they gain the skills, confidence, and independence necessary to be successful in their future endeavors.
Developmental priorities
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
What RNS says about their developmental priorities:
The RNS student values working together, being a part of each other's lives, and looking out for the greater good of the community. Our philosophy encourages students to put forth their best effort. We provide students with a compassionate and comfortable learning environment, allowing them to be courageous and take risks. Our community breathes the values of dignity and respect for all. Our graduates are literate, numerate, technologically savvy, independent and critical thinkers.
Special needs support
RNS offers No support
RNS offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.DyscalculiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor DeficitA characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).Asperger's SyndromeOn the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.Down syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).Williams syndromeThis is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.Clinical DepressionThis is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.Clinical anxietyThis is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.Suicidal thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.Cerebral palsyhis refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.Muscular dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.BlindnessVisual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."DeafnessHearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).Cystic FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
Type | Offered |
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Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
Type | Offered |
---|---|
Accommodations | |
Modifications | |
Extra support |
Additional support
Type | Offered |
---|---|
Social skills programs | |
Occupational therapy | |
Psychotherapy | |
Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
Curriculum Delivery: Enrichment
The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.
Class structure
Program | Offered |
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Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
In-class adaptations
Program | Offered |
---|---|
Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement) | |
Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement) | |
Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement) | |
Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement) | |
Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others) | |
Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement) | |
Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement) | |
Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement) | |
Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement) |
What RNS says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, RNS students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
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RNS | 30 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 120 mins |
Site Average | 42 mins | 54 mins | 59 mins | 76 mins | 88 mins | 104 mins | 113 mins |
What RNS says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
How assessments are delivered across the grades
Type | Grades |
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Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 6 to Gr. 12 |
Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 6 to Gr. 12 |
Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 6 to Gr. 12 |
Extracurricular Activities
While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.
Sports offered
Rothesay Netherwood School offers 17 competitive sports and 20 recreational sports.
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Cross-country skiing
- Cycling
- Downhill skiing
- Field Hockey
- Golf
- Ice Hockey
- Ice Skating
- Martial Arts
- Mountain biking
- Rowing
- Rugby
- Running
- Snowboarding
- Soccer
- Softball
- Squash
- Tennis
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Rothesay Netherwood School offers 21 clubs and extracurricular programs.
What RNS says about their extracurricular activities:
- RNS Rowers experience CSSRA 71st Annual Regatta. Competing at the Canadian Secondary School Regatta is a high school rowers ultimate challenge- with 128 schools participating in various course conditions. Our crews rowed technically sound and put forth a tremendous performance in the women’s double & men’s 8+, finishing 4th in their heats. Ian Morrison moved through to the senior 72kg single final finishing 5th.
- RNS student makes NB U17 baseball team. Bryson Woodworth '17 has been selected to join Team NB Selects at the Canada Cup baseball U17 Championships in Fort McMurray, Alberta. The tournament features the country's top players and is a highly scouted event. This will be Bryson's second year with the team, which finished with a 5-2 record last year.
- RNS Students star in Rothesay Ballet School Spring Recital at the Imperial Theatre. The girls were involved in a variety of dance including contemporary, tap and a full ballet performance of 'Jewels'.
- Rowers win 2016 High School Championships. Many thanks are extended to our alumni coaches Matthew Snelgrove '11, Ben McMullin '12 and Mae-Lin Delange '15.
- MS Rugby Team wins Rugby7s Mini Tournament. RNS hosted the second of three Rugby7s mini-tournaments with teams visiting from MacDonald Consolidated School in Kingston, Belleisle Middle School, Forest Hills Middle School and two teams from Quispamsis Middle School.
- Grade 8 Students win Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision National Competition. As the top Middle School Team in North America, the students will travel to Washington, DC, in June for an awards ceremony and many exciting events. The Discovery Channel and The Daily Planet also aired a video clip of the students receiving the news.
- Grade 12 Athlete breaks World Records at International Power Lifting competition. Patrick Lawrence '16 attended the meet in Amherst, NS. He won first place in his age/weight class, but he also set three world records! The old squat record was 264.6 lbs and Patrick squatted the new world record at 325 lbs. Patrick benched 215 lbs, and set the new deadlift world record pulling 435.4 lbs. The third world record was the total. The bench, squat, and deadlift are all combined to amount to 975 lbs for Patrick, exceeding the old total record by 159 lbs.
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: Rothesay Netherwood School
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