THERE was a definite hint of joy and relief as parents dropped their youngsters off for the first day of term at an Ilkley school this week.

Far from banishing all thoughts of school in favour of summer holidays, parents of pupils at Ghyll Royd School worked tirelessly to make sure there was a school to return to in September.

Following the retirement of the school's previous owners, Eileen and Michael Shepherd, the school parents' association formed a charitable trust to secure its future into the next century.

As well as a new head teacher in Jennifer Bonner, the new-look Ghyll Royd School now boasts a new library and a well equipped science room.

A school spokesman said the new charitable status school would 'ensure that 110 years of history and tradition continues'.

"The school provides a happy and lively atmosphere where children can learn to achieve their full potential. Boys leaving Ghyll Royd are confident, articulate and ready to meet new challenges with a sense of responsibility," said the sppokesman.

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