A primary school near Boroughbridge has been celebrating its 150th anniversary this week.
Roecliffe CE Primary School has held a number of themed events to mark a century and a half of “nurturing young minds” and “delivering high-quality education rooted in Christian values.”
Throughout the week, staff, pupils, and families have stepped back in time to enjoy a vibrant programme of Victorian-themed activities.
On Monday (30th June), the school community gathered for a heartfelt thanksgiving service at St Mary’s Church in Roecliffe.
Led by Reverend Sue Simpson, the event was able to offer blessings for the school’s future and to extend a warm welcome to the new vicar.
Tuesday (1st July) saw the school transformed as the Ripon Workhouse Museum hosted an immersive day of hands-on Victorian experiences.
Pupils took part in activities such as rag rugging, polishing, laundry work, traditional farming tasks and lessons in a recreated Victorian classroom — all rounded off with classic games and toys from the era.
Roecliffe pupil Isla said:
“We lived and worked how Victorian children would. We did laundry, school lessons and even workhouse selection!”
Louis added:
“I enjoyed the Victorian day because I learned lots of new things and what life was like as a Victorian.
“It was a brilliant experience and I wish for more.”
The week concluded with a 150th Anniversary Garden Party on Friday 4th July, held on the picturesque Roecliffe village green.
The school were joined by a host of special guests, including Sir Andrew Lawson-Tancred, whose ancestors established the school; Richard Noake, CEO of LDLT; and former headteacher Margaret Bushell, who led the school during its centenary celebrations in 2000.
Headteacher Lesley Briggs said:
“We pride ourselves on making our learning experiences here at Roecliffe very memorable, and we love enriching our curriculum so to be able to do a history topic based around our school and bring the community together to celebrate that with us has been absolutely a great opportunity for us.
“The children have enjoyed it so much, it’s going to be fantastic.”
Listen to our full chat with Mrs Briggs here:
Yorkshire Dales Food and Drink Festival cancelled
Harrogate law firm receives national recognition for outstanding client care
Giant globe installation unveiled in Harrogate
Everything you need to know about Starbeck Fest
Leeds Bradford Airport ranked in UK's top 10
Supercar event returns to Ripon this weekend
Harrogate MP votes against 'cruel' Government welfare cuts
Pedestrian taken to hospital after Bond End crash
Bus firm launches £3.5million hybrid fleet to Leeds Bradford Airport
Harrogate triathlete to compete for Team GB at European finals
New cocktail bar launches in Harrogate town centre
Police launch appeal after Ripon Road crash
New café opens on Kings Road in Harrogate
Knaresborough dance school head to Dance World Cup
Travel guide: Getting around Harrogate during the Great Yorkshire Show
Yorkshire's reservoir levels drop further after heatwave
Walking tour legend to host Harrogate's first women's history walk
Harrogate Town announce signing of Doncaster defender
Rossett School's sponsored walk raises thousands for charity
Independent Harrogate jewellers celebrates 25th anniversary
