Tees Business Tees Business issue 11 | Page 57

Serving the Teesside Business Community | 57 Teesside’s hidden gem N estled on the banks of the River Tees lies one of the region’s educational treasures. Teesside High School has occupied this impressive site for almost 50 years. The school traces its roots back to Queen Victoria High School and The Cleveland School, the latter housed in a rambling Victorian mansion on the current Eaglescliffe grounds. The historic buildings were enjoyed by generations of schoolchildren before their demolition in 1970, when Teesside High School began its life. The former girls’ school has been co-educational since 2005 and is recognised as one of the region’s best performing independent schools for boys and girls aged from three-to-18. It is clear that students love their time here. In lessons, they thrive, achieving on average one grade higher than their expected targets. Head Andrew Wilson is proud of the school’s consistently excellent results. “We work with children of all abilities and inspire them to achieve great things,” he said. “Our class sizes are small and our diverse community is truly one of our biggest assets. “Whilst we celebrate our record of high achievement, it is important to recognise that exam statistics and league table positions are only a snapshot of life at any school. “At Teesside High, we place significant importance on other facets of school life which help our children develop into rounded adults; outstanding pastoral care, exceptional co-curricular activities and fantastic sporting opportunities complement and enhance academic study.” With over 20 acres at their disposal, staff and students have no shortage of space. Adjacent to the river lies an international standard hockey facility, tennis and netball courts, artificial cricket wicket, football and rugby pitches, athletics track and a cross country trail. The school’s youngest pupils particularly enjoy their time in the Woodland School, a delightful outdoor classroom and muddy kitchen shaded by the surrounding trees. Visit Teesside High School’s Open Day on Saturday September 30, 9.30am-12.30pm to find out more. To enquire about hiring school facilities, please call 01642 782095.