The 19th century saw great changes, the population had grown, and the number of children increased. Concern was felt about child employment and ill treatment. Schools were suggested as the answer. In 1833, children from nine to thirteen employed in the textile mills should have nine hours in the factory and two hours schooling daily. It was not until the Acts of 1876 and 1880 that education for children age thirteen and below became compulsory, coupled with a system of weekly payments by the parents, not finally abolished until the turn of the century.

In 1902 the School Boards were replaced by Local Education Authorities who took over the responsibility for both the School Boards and Church Schools.

The school provides a good quality education where pupils thrive and achieve well. The caring and inclusive ethos fosters very positive relationships between adults and children overall and underpins the secure and supportive learning environment in place. Importantly, the school has addressed the shortcomings highlighted by the last inspection. Pupils, including those with learning difficulties and/or disabilities, make good progress in their academic work relative to their starting points. By the time pupils leave the school their attainment is above average, including core subjects of English, mathematics and science. High standards have been sustained for several years and current progress data places the school just below the top 25% of schools nationally.

The school has achieved the Activemark, the inclusion Quality Mark and FMSiS.

The school is a good school that places the individual needs and aspirations of every child at its heart. Pupils, staff and parents spoke warmly about he 'family atmosphere' in the school where 'everyone matters'. Vibrant displays of pupils' work celebrate their achievements and reflect the increasingly varied curriculum that excites pupils' interest, promotes positive attitudes and encourages them to become confident learners. Links with schools in the local and global communities provide pupils with an insight into the world around them. Attainment is rising and gaps in performance between different subjects and groups of pupils are closing because of a whole-school focus on improving areas of identified weakness.

The school has received a number of awards, including the North Yorkshire Quality Mark at Level 5 on Leading on Inclusion in September 2008, the Activemark and the Basic Skills Award. It offers extended provision of a breakfast club and after-school club each day.