New era for Yorkshire grammar as pupils unite on revamped site
A GRAMMAR school in Calderdale has undergone a significant redevelopment during the summer holidays in preparation for the merger of its junior and senior sites.
The coming school term marks a new era for Hipperholme Grammar School as the senior site in Bramley Lane, Hipperholme, becomes the base for all its pupils aged three to 18 for the first time.
Refurbishments at the site have included converting the former music block into the early years area, with reception and nursery classes having their own self-contained play area.
There have been further works to create two new music practice rooms, an office for junior school headteacher Sarah Weller and six refurbished classrooms for the junior pupils.
The new term, which begins tomorrow, also marks the start of Jackie Griffiths’ times as Hipperholme Grammar headteacher after Jack Williams moved to Bolton School.
“There has been a huge transformation over the summer,” said Mrs Griffiths.
“This has been a mammoth task from dismantling walls, ceilings, doors and fencing to building new toilets and classrooms.
“Everyone has worked tirelessly to ensure we would be ready for the new term.
“The junior school yard at the front has come alive with fantastic activities designed by the children and painted in bright colours on the floor.”
Mrs Griffiths expects the move to one site to herald greater communication between the junior and senior sections, who will now work as one team.
She added: “This site encourages our family ethos and allows us to share expertise across the age groups.”
Hipperholme Grammar School, which was launched as the independent Hipperholme Grammar School Foundation in 1985, previously had its junior site based in Wakefield Road, Lightcliffe.
There are plans to hold an ‘official unveiling’ of the new site in October.