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:
Pilot dies following aircraft crash near Masham, police confirm
Ripon's Portly Pig to host charity football tournament
Council to review parking charges across North Yorkshire
Free packed lunches at Starbeck café feed families in need
Harrogate dentist recognised at national dental awards
Knaresborough beeswax candle shop set to close
Harrogate Town launches new half-time crossbar challenge
Queen and ABBA tribute acts to headline Harrogate Beer Festival
Ripon entrepreneur to appear on Dragon's Den
Harrogate figures to be 'jailed' to raise money for Harrogate Theatre
Harrogate bookshop named as finalist for British Book Awards
Council update on operator of Alpamare water park
Visitor levy would be mayor's decision, says senior councillor
Date announced for return of Harrogate dog show
Harrogate's Italian community donates sensory kits worth £1,200 to Harrogate Hospital
Man taken to Leeds General infirmary following aircraft crash in Masham
Six arrested following car theft in Harrogate
FULL CHAT: Local occupational therapist hosts online masterclass to support new mums
Harrogate businesses reject new accommodation BID proposal
New interior showroom to open on Albert Street
