In an occasional series we will look at the 4 village schools which served the High Country area, none of which unfortunately survive as schools today.
Stanford Rivers school was opened in 1850. By 1858 it was reported that there were 30 boys and 37 girls enrolled but there was much truancy, but by 1870 the numbers had risen to 117. In 1962 the numbers of children attending had dropped to 20 and a decision was taken to close the school in 1965. The buildings were pulled down and the site used as a permanent site for gypsies.
Stanford Rivers School Foundation Committee 1851.
The land at the Stanford Rivers School was given to the Rector and Churchwardens for ever - upon trust. The School to be managed by a committee, all of whom must be members of the Church of England; the committee to be the Rector, his Curate, or Curates if appointed by him, the Churchwardens and three others, Sir C. C. Smith to be one. A vacancy to be filled at a meeting duly convened for the purpose, by those who have paid 10/- towards the expenses of the school during the current year and each subscriber shall have one vote for every 10/- up to the number of six. The Chairman can receive votes in writing from those unable to attend the meeting.
The Master and Mistress must be members of the Church of England.
A Ladies Committee of five can be appointed every year in the month of May by the Managers to superintend the sewing and infants.
Signed 1851, Sir Charles Cunliffe Smith.