Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at Marple Hall School.

Thank you for all your support,

See you in 2026!

Joe Barker and all the staff at MHS

It’s late on Friday as I write this blog. I have just had the absolute privilege of watching our school production of Sister Act, and I am still buzzing from the experience. From the very first note to the final curtain call, the energy and talent on display were nothing short of breath taking. Our students lit up the stage with confidence, humour and heart. The acting, singing, dancing and music was spot on, and every performance was a testament to their hard work and creativity.

Behind the scenes, an incredible crew and tech team worked tirelessly to make the magic happen. The lighting, sound and set changes were seamless, creating a professional standard that would rival any theatre. Huge thanks also go to Miss Bridge and her dedicated team of staff who guided, supported and inspired our young performers throughout this journey. And of course, none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of parents and families – thank you for cheering them on every step of the way.

Productions like this embody the Marple Hall Spirit: a community where every student can achieve, belong and thrive. The creative arts matter because they give young people confidence, joy and a voice. Too many schools narrow the curriculum and the cost is the loss of opportunities like these. But, like our FA cup winning footballers before them, it is the extra-curricular experience that lasts a lifetime and I am immensely proud to be Head of this school, where Spark shines so brightly.

Well done all, you’ve done us proud. Have a couple of days off on me and then back to it on Monday.

Best wishes

Joe Barker

Important: School is closed for staff training on Friday 5th December. No children should attend school

This week, Mr Sharp delivered a powerful assembly on Honesty, one of the five pillars of the Marple Hall Spirit. He reminded us that honesty isn’t something we’re born with or without, it’s a skill we learn. No one is born a liar. It’s a choice we make, and like all choices it can be shaped for the better.

Honesty takes courage. It means owning up when things go wrong, speaking the truth even when it’s uncomfortable, and trusting that doing the right thing matters. In school, honesty builds respect between students and staff, and it strengthens our community. When we’re honest, we create an environment where everyone can achieve, belong and thrive.

So let’s take Mr Sharp’s challenge seriously: be truthful, even when it’s hard. Because honesty isn’t just a word, it’s the foundation of trust, and trust is what makes Marple Hall School.

Before I finish today, and in keeping with speaking the truth even when it’s uncomfortable, I want to address one misunderstanding that has come to my attention recently.

Regarding the decision that Rose Hill Primary School has made to academise and join the Greater Manchester Education Trust, I feel the need to clarify that our trust – Helix – did indeed express a strong desire for Rose Hill to join with us. I have had a number of people suggest the contrary to me, and it is important that I clarify that Helix did want to work with Rose Hill.  Although I am disappointed, I respect their right to make whatever decision they feel is best for their school community. We remain committed to working with staff at Rose Hill, our largest and nearest primary school, in the interests of the children, families and colleagues of both schools.

I hope that this clears the matter up,

Finally…to everyone involved in Sister Act next week…Break a Leg!

Joe Barker