New Side by Side School Opens its Doors to Pupils for the First Time

On Monday 24^th October, Side by Side - the inclusive nursery and special needs school in Stamford Hill - welcomed pupils to their first day of school at its new state-of-the-art campus. The 35,000 square foot, £11.6m purpose-built building sees Side by Side’s capacity increase from 80 to 150 pupils, providing increased space, enhanced facilities, and bespoke support to cater for every student’s needs. 

To mark the auspicious occasion, Headteacher Gerald Lebrett, alongside Side by Side trustees, had the honour of inviting pupils to join in a ribbon-cutting ceremony beneath a celebratory balloon arch to officially open the school’s doors to its pupils. With the pupils having had the opportunity to visit the building earlier this year, it was clear that they were already comfortable with and settling into their new surroundings.

Parents of pupils remarked that the school is “a dream come true” and “exceptionally welcoming”, while staff commented on how excited they are to see the children have endless new and improved opportunities to thrive. Staff and parents alike were gleaming with pride and gratitude. 

Side by Side was founded to give every child a place to feel at home. Since its inception, children with special educational needs have had the chance to learn new skills and make progress over time. The new school will continue to hold this core value at its heart, taking a holistic view and having the space and resources to extend its vital provisions to more of the local community. 

Gerald Lebrett, Headteacher of Side by Side, said: “It is difficult to put into words what this opening means to me. I am so incredibly proud of our whole team, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every person who has been involved in this project and worked exceptionally hard to ensure we reached this landmark occasion. This is more than just a physical move for all involved, and we cannot wait to see what the next chapter brings as our pupils continue to flourish and reach new heights.”

Jacob Sorotzkin, Trustee at Side by Side, said: “This beautiful project will allow our current and prospective students to maximise their potential and develop in new and exciting ways. On behalf of us all, my sincere thanks to our donors and my fellow trustees. Our dream has become a reality.”