The history of education in Verwood can be traced back to the 1840’s but it’s not until 1967 when Verwood County Junior School opened that the school we now know as Hillside officially came into existence. Initially a primary school, before local authority reorganisation in the 1970s to the 'three tier system' of first, middle and upper schools. In 2017 Hillside received a new Key stage two base for children in year three and four. Hillside First School joined Initio Learning Trust in January 2019.

We are a community school for children from 4-9 years of age. Children transfer at the end of year four to Emmanuel CE Middle School, also within Initio Learning Trust.

Ours is a school with a very strong community spirit. We believe in close partnership between home and school, and warmly welcome parents / carers and family members into school. Our fantastic PTA - contributes hugely to the resources and opportunities that we can offer our pupils, thanks to the commitment of parents and members of our local community.

Welcome to our website: we hope you enjoy looking through it, and finding out about our school. Please contact us if you would like further information about anything contained within these webpages.

This website is designed to be used by the whole school community: children, parents, staff and governors. Read our children’s contributions in the class pages and check out the latest news from Hillside First School in the news pages.

Thank you.

Dave Graves
Headteacher