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:
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