Yesterday we had the pleasure of welcoming Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, to Marple Hall School. It’s not every day that someone in such a prominent public role walks through our doors, and our students certainly made the most of the opportunity. Around 100 of our student leaders gathered in the hall, ready with an impressive array of questions that showed just how engaged and thoughtful they are about the world around them.

No topic was off limits. Transport links, house prices, climate change, school funding, the voting age – and several more besides – all featured in what quickly became a lively and wide‑ranging discussion. To his credit, Andy took every question in good humour, responding openly and clearly even when the students really pushed him. It was wonderful to see young people holding a politician to account with such confidence and maturity.

As a state school we are, of course, strictly non‑political. We don’t take sides and we don’t promote parties or personalities. What we do believe in, though, is giving students first‑hand experiences that help them understand the world they’re growing up in. Yesterday was a perfect example of that in action.

Huge thanks to Andy and his team, to Mrs Wilson for setting up the event, and to the student leaders for hosting the debate and asking the questions. Here’s a quick photo of Andy with our Head Boy and Head Girl.

Have a great weekend,

Joe Barker

It has been a real pleasure to welcome students and colleagues back to school this week. The start of a new term always brings a sense of renewed purpose, and it has been wonderful to see our community return with energy, kindness and a clear focus on the weeks ahead.

The weather has certainly tested us. Cold weather, snow, ice and dark mornings have made getting out of the house a little harder than usual. Yet, despite this, our students and staff have arrived each day ready to learn, supporting one another and approaching school life with positivity. That resilience and determination says a great deal about who we are as a school.

The term ahead is full of opportunity. There is much to be proud of and much still to achieve. I would like to offer particular encouragement to our Year 11 students. With parents’ evening next week and trial examinations beginning on Monday 19th January, this is an important and busy period. These moments are not about pressure, but about preparation, reflection and belief. We are proud of all our students, especially the Class of 2026, and we will support you every step of the way.

Stay warm and safe,

Joe Barker

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

One of the great strengths of Marple Hall School is the sense of community that surrounds us. Parents, staff, and students all play their part in making this a place where young people can achieve, belong, and thrive. Today, I’m delighted to share some news that strengthens that community even further.

We are welcoming three new governors to our governing board:

• Anthony Woodings and Emma Williamson, who join us as Parent Governors
• Jen Mather, who joins as our new Staff Governor

Governors are an essential part of school life, even if their work often happens behind the scenes. They don’t run the school day-to-day, but they do provide vital oversight and support. They help set the strategic direction, hold leaders to account, and make sure resources are used wisely. In short, they are critical friends: people who care deeply about the school and want the very best for every student.

Why does this matter? Because good governance makes a good school even better. Governors bring different perspectives, ask thoughtful questions, and ensure that decisions are made in the interests of all pupils. For me and my team, it means having a sounding board and a source of challenge that helps us stay focused on what really matters. For governors themselves, it’s a chance to make a real difference in the lives of young people.

Anthony, Emma, and Jen – as well as existing governors Sarah, Richard, Tam, Heather, Hersha and Pamela – thank you for stepping forward. Your commitment is hugely appreciated, and I know you’ll help us continue to build a school where every child can flourish.

Best wishes,

Joe Barker

The first of a number of head-student takeovers this week. Today’s blog comes courtesy of the fantastic Tilda Francis.

Best wishes,

Joe Barker

Dear Parents/Carers,

My name is Tilda and I’m a student leader here at Marple Hall. I’m writing this week’s blog to follow up on the assemblies the Head Students have delivered this week on the theme of kindness.

Kindness has a profound impact on our lives and has the power to be more transformative than we realise. We live in a world that moves fast and it is easy to become absorbed in our own schedules and routines. As parents, I am sure you juggle many demands including those of family, home and work. Everyone else we meet is carrying their own burdens too, which are often unseen. That is precisely why kindness matters so much; it can bridge the gaps between people and allow for opportunities to connect with others.

Kindness does not have to involve grand or costly gestures. In fact, it is often found in the quiet acts that sometimes we may take for granted. The beauty of kindness lies in its simplicity and accessibility. It costs nothing, yet its value can be immeasurable. In addition to benefitting those around us, kindness can also have personal rewards. Research has shown that frequently performing acts of kindness can boost moods, minimise stress and enhance our overall sense of wellbeing. By being kind to those around us, we are rewarded with a sense of fulfilment.

Of course, we all know that kindness can be challenging sometimes. It’s often difficult to be empathetic and compassionate when we are faced with rudeness or disrespect. However, kindness is not about who deserves it, it is about who needs it the most. A simple act of kindness can make a world of difference to someone who is struggling.

To celebrate World Kindness Week, students have been asked to send a postcard to someone who is an important part of their lives to show their kindness and gratitude. Furthermore, our form ambassadors will be collecting donations on Monday and Tuesday of this coming week of non-perishable tinned food to donate to a local food bank. Everyone is encouraged to participate and donate anything they are able to so that we can spread Marple Hall’s kindness message to our local community. If you can, then please help.

Imagine the collective impact we could have if everyone made the decision to be just a little kinder. Our community would feel safer, more supportive and more inclusive. Everyone would feel seen and heard, and our relationships would be strengthened. In short, we would create a better, more compassionate environment for everyone. 

Have a great weekend,

Tilda

As we move deeper into this term, I’ve been reflecting on what makes Marple Hall a great place to work. For me, three things stand out time and again: the value of hard work, the respect we show for one another, and the pride we take in being part of this community.

Working hard isn’t always glamorous, but it’s the foundation of success. Whether it’s students tackling challenging topics in lessons, staff going the extra mile to support learning and wellbeing, or families encouraging good habits at home, effort really does make the difference. Every small step adds up, and together we create an environment where great things are possible.

Alongside effort sits respect. Respect for each other’s ideas, backgrounds, and ambitions is what makes our school feel safe and welcoming. In a world that can sometimes feel divided – increasingly so at the moment – I’m proud that Marple Hall stands for tolerance and understanding. Not everyone gets this right all the time, but the overwhelming majority of us do and we’ll defend it to the core.

Finally, community pride. We are more than a school; we are part of something bigger. When we support each other, celebrate successes, and face challenges together, we show what it means to belong. Friday evening is a perfect example of this spirit in action: the Oliver’s Dragons Fire Walk at 7pm at Marple Sports Club. It promises to be an inspiring event, raising funds and awareness for a fantastic cause. If you can, come along and be part of something truly special. As long as the weather doesn’t put the fire out….

Thank you for everything you do to make Marple Hall the vibrant, caring community it is.

Take care,
Joe Barker

I hope that everyone managed to enjoy the week last week and that students are back and ready for the term ahead. It’s been lovely to see the school full again, and I’ve been really pleased with what I’ve seen taking place in lessons each day. Before we finished for the half term I didn’t get chance to congratulate our Year 11 and Year 9 MFL cohorts on their effort and conduct during the trial exams. We ran a fairly intense trial exam window, with Yr11s having exams in all three core subjects of English, Maths and Science as well as Year 9 taking on either French or Spanish. We have come to expect perfect behaviour in exams at MHS, and the week before half term was no exception. It is great to see so many young people taking their own future so seriously.

As you know, over the break we made a big switch from SIMS to Bromcom. SIMS has been the beating heart of the school for over 20 years, the software package that stores literally every piece of data needed to keep a large comprehensive school operating. However, all good things must come to an end and it was time to embrace the future with Bromcom. We’re aware that the switch over has thrown up some glitches…not least with dinner money at the start of the week…but thanks to a lot of time and effort from many colleagues were are getting there. Thank you for your patience, and if you’re not on the app yet then I recommend you look into it.

Finally, as we broke up for half term I flagged up a consultation to alter the admissions policy at MHS with effect from September 2027. I’m aware that many people have an opinion on the planned changes, but I’m also aware that some of this concern is based on inaccurate information. We have therefore pulled together a rationale and FAQ document that can be seen here.

I hope that this helps,

Best wishes

Joe

Last week I shared information about Oliver’s Dragon’s, the excellent local charity set up to support local young people and those closely affected by cancer. I mentioned that they are having a big fundraising event whereby the brave and the daft have the chance to take part in a fire walk to raise money. The details of the event at Marple Sports Club are copied again at the end of this blog.

It dawned on me over the weekend that I couldn’t just advertise this event, and should in fact take part myself. So, wisely or otherwise, I have signed up to join in the challenge. I would dearly like to raise a good amount of money for the charity and so if anyone has a spare pound or two, and wants to put it to very good use, then you can do so safe in the knowledge that Mr Barker is literally going to walk over hot coals for it. Details of how to donate are here

Aside from that excitement, immediately after half term we are moving to a new whole school MIS (management information system). It’s an exciting change as we move from SIMS to Bromcom. We are sure there will be some teething issues in the early weeks as this is a complicated process, but when all is settled we’re confident that Bromcom will provide a much better service for parents, families, staff and students. Please be patient if things are not perfect straight away!

Finally, Marple Hall School are proposing to make some changes to our admissions policy and the the ‘over-subscribed’ criteria. The Local Authority are managing the process on behalf of all schools, and details can be found here.

I hope that everyone has a wonderful week next week, and thank you for all your support over another successful half term.

Best wishes,

Joe Barker