Word of mouth is a big selling point for schools, so we thought rather than us sell the Hebden Bridge Schools Federation, we’d let some of our wonderful families do it for us!
Meet Fiona, Phoebe (Year 5) and Uma (Year 3)
Tell us about your family (children and which schools they went to/go to in the Federation)
Previously Central St. Now, Riverside.
How long have you lived in the area and what do you love about it?
8 years. I love the wee community in Hebden Bridge and bumping into lovely people. It’s a beautiful location. It also doesn’t feel hemmed in with transport connections, or values.
Riverside Junior School
What’s been your child’s/children’s experience(s) of school?
Both have enjoyed being at school. Lock down has been challenging but the standard of the work provided and regular zoom lessons have been fantastic.
There have been a few issues but these have been met with empathy and solutions when brought to the school’s attention.
Ideas for developing confidence/supporting confidence have been specific for the needs of both too.
Central Street
Is there a particular memory or highlight that’s stood out for you/them?
The cinema trips, the Christmas fare, the Christmas performances. Phoebe’s already looking forward to the residential.
The help with getting Uma through her blood tests has been phenomenal. It has really helped have the school support her through this.
Is there anything more to add you haven’t already been asked?
Seeing the xmas play recently really did help with feeling how lovely the school is. It is a small school and a caring school that looks after my children as the individuals they are, not spoon feeding or patronising their endless inquisitiveness.
It is such a haven where they can have a solid start, where the teachers really see their potential and support developing their confidence. Thank you.
Meet Mia, Jack (at Secondary), Summer (Year 3) and Brea (Reception)
Riverside Junior School
What’s been your child’s/children’s experience(s) of school?
All 3 children have enjoyed attending school and have developed good relationships with peers and adults within school. They have all been supported in making progress across all aspects of school life.
Do any of your children attend secondary school in the area and can you give us any insight into these?
Calder High – Communication to families is generally good and individual staff have been responsive and understanding to my child’s needs.
Stubbings Infant School
Tell us about your family (children and which schools they went to/go to in the Federation)
Jack (12) Stubbings, Riverside, Calder High
Summer (8) Stubbings, Riverside
Brea (4) Stubbings
How long have you lived in the area and what do you love about it?
We moved into a house directly opposite Stubbings school 23 years ago. We loved the fact that such a small town packed such a big punch; there was always something new and exciting going on. We got to know our neighbours and met new people but it was only when the children came along that we really felt like part of the community and a big part of that was Stubbings. As a brand new parent, I was apprehensive about attending the parent and toddler group where we knew nobody but we were welcomed with open arms. We got to know not just other families but the staff. It really made a huge difference in our feeling of belonging.
Riverside Junior School
Is there anything more to add you haven’t already been asked?
What’s special about my schools?
I’ve worked in many schools that say they are child centred, family friendly and have an open door policy, but that’s not always been seen in practice, however this has always been the experience for my family at Stubbings and Riverside.
Staff know me and my family and understand what we need. Many times I have been asked, ”What can we do to help?” Sometimes, just asking the question is enough.