Side by side is fabulous. It is a school that allows all it's children to learn through play. On his first day, my son Yosef said to me 'More, I want more side by side'.
Mrs Sarah Frielich - mother of Yosef (5yrs) and Tzvi (2yrs). Neither child has special needs
About Us
Founded and directed by Mrs. Rebecca Rumpler, Side by Side was established to accommodate the education of children with special needs, alongside those without. The concept school was instituted following an apparent need that no other school could commit to support or thought to consider.
Keen and sensitive that her own son, recognised with downs syndrome, should not grow up without the interaction he would experience at school, Mrs. Rumpler launched a local playgroup. Within 18 months Rebecca found herself caring for 12 children. She had, almost inadvertently, started a school - Side by Side was born.
Side by Side has continued to grow in the last ten years, based at its current location in Big Hill since 2004. Today Side by Side educates and cares for over 60 children, with an ever increasing waiting list. Employing 60 members of staff, 7 therapists and more than 30 volunteers, the schools expansion calls for a new premises with enhanced facilities.
In September 2006, land contracts were exchanged for a plot previously home to the Avigdor Primary School, 65-67 Lordship Road. Whilst acknowledging this as a hugely positive transition, Side by Side must raise the £10m necessary sponsorship and donation required to construct and fully-equip the new school building.
Side by Side set out to provide a unique school with an effective and integrated educational service.
Side by Side exists to accommodate and educate children from Pre-School through to Secondary. The present Nursery holds a capacity of 45 children, set to increase twofold on completion of the new site. Of the total children (aged 2-5) attending the nursery, one third are mainstream children.
At present, Side by Side maintains three primary school classes, currently with 12 teachers, dependent on need. One-on-one tuition is available where necessary. The Secondary level comprises of a two form entry. Classes are again tailored to individual students, with nine teachers, together with specialist therapists available where required.
Side by Side encourages its pupils to regularly attend their local school in order to integrate with children their own age. The frequency to which children are expected to attend is dependent and tailored to their own special requirements.
We take this opportunity in inviting you to sponsor our highly deserving, inspirational school, that is in need of your kind support and dedication. In sponsoring Side by Side, each and every donation will act as a huge investment into the life, growth and schooling of our special students. Each donation is gratefully received and guarantees a child the educational experience they truly deserve. Donate today, and invest in a brighter future.