Like a set of Russian dolls, we are a series of mini communities nestled neatly within one. Our all-through site has a Nursery, Prep School and Senior School – each distinct and with its own personality but bound by a common culture of care and ethos of aspiration. The three phases are led by one Headteacher, Mrs Samra, ensuring a consistent approach to teaching and learning, pastoral care and shared intrinsic values.

We take care to balance the separateness and togetherness of the children, aged from three in the Nursery to 16 at the top end of the Senior School. Little ones have their own playtime and playground but Year 7 have, for example, taught Reception children about the solar system, testing their knowledge and understanding of what they have learnt in class and embracing the opportunity to be role models to much younger children. The benefits are as valuable as intangible.

The families of our pupils have such a positive influence on the shape and nature of the school community. Family members are very much part and parcel of school life and we would have it no other way. Parents, grandparents and other relatives bring support, good humour, friendliness, fairness and care to Hydesville and we are richer for their many and varied contributions.

We are proud of our links with wider Walsall, for example Acorns Children’s Hospice, The New Art Gallery Walsall, Walsall Leather Museum, The University of Wolverhampton (Walsall Campus), Walsall Arboretum and St Paul’s and St Matthew’s churches, to name but a few.

Beyond this we are proud and privileged to be part of the worldwide Cognita family, the schools group founded by the late Sir Chris Woodhead, former chief inspector of schools.