Newby has its origins as Ryan Infant School, a large imposing Victorian building with records dating back to 1920.In September 1973 with re-organization, Ryan Infant and Junior Schools combined to become Newby First School. In July 1981 the old school building was closed because of constructional problems and temporary accommodation was erected on Parkside Road, 2 miles away, whilst the old school was demolished and the new school built. During this time most of the children had to be bussed to the school. In 1985 the school moved to the present new open plan accommodation.

Further improvements were made at reorganisation to Primary status in 2001. In 2003 the Community room was opened and in 2004 the Sports and Arts Centre built. 2005 saw the redesigning of Unit 3 and the start of work to make the site compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act.

The school continues to develop in response to national and local initiatives but remains first and foremost a community complex working in partnership with parents and community to maximise achivement.