Blackley Primary School Recognised Among UK Leaders for Staff Wellbeing
By Schools Correspondent
A primary school in Blackley has been nationally recognised for its exceptional commitment to supporting the wellbeing of its staff, placing it among the first schools in the country to achieve the honour.
Pike Fold Community Primary School has been awarded the Silver standard by the Teacher Wellbeing Alliance, making it one of only two schools nationwide to reach this milestone so far.
Located on Old Market Street, the school has long been valued by the local community for its inclusive and people-centred approach.
That ethos has now been acknowledged on a national level, with the award highlighting the school’s success in creating a positive, supportive working environment for both teaching and support staff.
As part of the assessment process, the Teacher Wellbeing Alliance carried out a detailed evaluation of how staff are supported at the school.
The review noted a clear emphasis on easing excessive workload pressures, strengthening emotional wellbeing support, and encouraging a healthier balance between professional and personal life.
Particular praise was given to the school’s “right to disconnect” approach, which discourages out-of-hours communication and helps staff protect their time away from work.
The Alliance also commended leaders for actively seeking staff feedback and fostering a culture where employees feel listened to and respected.
A spokesperson for the Teacher Wellbeing Alliance said the school demonstrates what can be achieved when staff wellbeing is embedded into leadership practices, adding that Pike Fold serves as an example for schools across the country.
Wellbeing leads at the school, including School Business Manager Kim Nickson and Headteacher Rachael Farnell-Hill, said the recognition reflects years of sustained effort to make Pike Fold a welcoming and supportive place to work.
