A primary school has been honoured with a prestigious award at this year’s Educate Awards.

Green Fold School in Farnworth was crowned winner of the Leadership Team of the Year award.

The award for the most outstanding leadership team looks for the senior leadership team who can demonstrate key successes, innovative practices, strategic goal achievements and high-level professional development.

The judges were amazed by Green Fold’s culture of collaboration.

The school provided evidence of research-led approaches and participation in ongoing continuing professional development (CPD) and the positive impact this has had on pupil outcomes.

The leadership team at Green Fold School are involved in local and regional initiatives, with headteacher Gary Anders serving as the regional lead for the Autism Education Trust and deputy headteacher, Lisa Walker, who is the lead trainer.

Together, they have trained over 1,000 practitioners in understanding autism across the Greater Manchester Region.

Green Fold School was also joint runner-up for the SEND Provision Award.

Another member of the Green Fold School team was recognised at the Educate Awards, Jeanette Horrocks, who was named runner-up for the School Support Star of the Year award.

Kim O’Brien, founder of the Educate Awards, said: “Congratulations to Green Fold School on its win at this year’s Educate Awards!

“A big well done to the runners-up and finalists too. Results this year were incredibly close, and judges had a difficult time deciding not only the shortlist but also overall the winners.”

Another Bolton school was also recognised at the awards, St Peter’s CE Primary School, was named runner-up in the Most Inspirational Primary School award.

Now in its twelfth year, the Educate Awards showcases the hard work and creativity in the education sector, from STEM and performing arts to sports and literacy.

The awards also recognise the individuals who bring schools and colleges to life, from inspiring teachers and dedicated support staff to strategic leadership teams.

In partnership with ASL and Ricoh, the Educate Awards took place at the Liverpool Cathedral and welcomed over 700 guests. The evening was hosted by broadcaster Simon ‘Rossie’ Ross.

Alongside the awards ceremony was a delicious three-course gala dinner and glittering entertainment from the region’s schools.

Providing a soundtrack to the reception was Gateacre School student, Aiden Ellis.

Opening the big event was Rainford High, which delivered a stellar performance of ‘Be Our Guest’ from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, followed by a dance and poetry performance from The Hollins in Accrington. The final performance of the night came from up-and-coming indie band, The Height, from Manchester.

Kim said: “The Educate Awards team is proud to champion the innovation, diversity and dedication that is taking place in educational establishments around the region. Entries will open again in February 2024, and we encourage all types of schools and colleges to submit as many entries as they like, for free.”

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