Rushna Avari  Designated Safeguarding Lead

Susie McAuley Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead I was born in Derry, Ireland and moved to Manchester in 2004. I fell in love with the city and have made it my home ever since. I trained first as a secondary school teacher and later as a play therapist with younger children. I love working at Manley Park Primary School because the ethos of nurture and well-being here means that children thrive in every way, not just educationally. Staff here really strive to understand the whole child and this fits with everything I believe in as a therapist. Interesting fact: I once ziplined across the Mindo Cloud Forest in Ecuador!

Sarah-Jane Henderson Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead

Gemma Frankland-Slater   Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead

Robert Jones SENDCO, Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead

Coralie James Class teacher, Science Coordinator, KS1 phase leader I grew up in Montpellier, a city in the south of France. I moved to the UK in 2020 and lived in York before moving to Manchester in 2022. Before becoming a class teacher, I trained as a researcher in Chemistry and I love sharing my passion for learning with children in our school. I love our school because of the respectful and positive atmosphere that allows everyone to achieve their full potential. Everyone at Manley Park - both children and adults - is encouraged to become who they want to be in a nurturing and caring environment. Interesting fact: I love hiking and going on treks: I once spent 5 full days walking in the wilderness without seeing a car nor a road.

Antonia Armstrong Class Teacher I was born and raised in mighty Matlock, Derbyshire and I am very proud of my roots. I moved to Manchester over 20 years ago to attend university and have making it my permanent home. In 2014 and crossed the globe to live and work in Beijing for 2 years. I love our school because the children are free to be individual and unique. Differences are celebrated in an inclusive environment. Interesting fact: I am a superfan of mornings! Most days, my alarm goes off at 4.30am. My favourite part of the day is my first sip of coffee and an early morning run or visit to the gym.

Immy Wilson Class Teacher, Music lead  I was born in Hereford, on the border of South Wales, but moved to the Peak District as a child. I completed my degree in Primary Education in the beautiful city of Oxford before moving to Manchester.  I love our school because it is a wonderful community, with so many opportunities for our children. All children are excited and inquisitive about learning and it's a pleasure to see them developing into well-rounded young people.  Interesting fact: I love water sports and spend my summers windsurfing, sailing, swimming and cliff jumping!

Georgia Barrett Class Teacher I was born in the capital city of London, however, I've lived in Whalley Range for most of my life! I find it a great reward to work and help families and children in different contexts and countries.  I love our school because of how it elevates the growth of its pupils, staff and families. I am proud to be serving at a school where the standards are exceptionally high, inspiring every child to reach their full potential.  Interesting fact: I've come from a family that is passionate about teaching children, my Mum runs a small school in Jamaica and I have a twin sister who is also a teacher!

Marianna Blackburn Year 4 Class Teacher I was born in Hereford, on the border of South Wales, but moved to the Peak District as a child. I completed my degree in Primary Education in the beautiful city of Oxford before moving to Manchester.  I love our school because it is a wonderful community, with so many opportunities for our children. All children are excited and inquisitive about learning and it's a pleasure to see them developing into well-rounded young people.  Interesting fact: I love water sports and spend my summers windsurfing, sailing, swimming and cliff jumping!

Jack Siers Class Teacher I grew up in a small countryside village in Hampshire before moving to Manchester to study at University. For my first university teaching placement I taught at Manley Park which is when I initially fell in love with the school. I love our school because of the amazing sense of community which is created by all pupils, staff and parents, and the positive impact that this has on the school environment. Interesting fact: I love to travel, and in the past few years have been lucky enough to adventure through parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, North America and South America!

Eve Smith Class Teacher I was born and raised in Cheshire. I studied Primary Education at Nottingham Trent University for 4 years and lived there for a further two years to start my teaching career. I travelled and taught for two more years before moving to Manchester.  I love our school because it is a supportive and cooperative environment for both children and staff. Children learn to become responsible and respectful citizens.  An interesting fact: I love to travel and recently went to South Africa, South East Asia, Fiji, Australia and South America. I did all sorts, from volunteer teaching to jumping out of planes!

Louise Gray Class Teacher, PE and School Sports Lead I was born and raised in Sale, Greater Manchester, and still live in the same area with my husband, two children and Labradoodle dog called Teddy. Together, we enjoy taking Teddy for walks. I love trying out new things and spent many of my adult years learning how to ice skate (although I piqued when learning how to spin and jump, so moved onto learning how to horse ride). I love our school because it teaches children how to become responsible, respectful and compassionate citizens. Everyone (staff and children) cares for each other, and supports each other to be the best version of themselves. An interesting fact:I love horses and spend a lot of my spare time at the yard with my daughter and her cheeky Welsh pony Chilli.

Mr Warburton Class Teacher I am from the bright lights of Warrington where I found a love for supporting learning through coaching rugby league. From there I've taught abroad, before saying I'm very proud to have landed at Manley Park. I love Manley Park because of how seriously staff take the personal, social and academic development of children. This culture is both infectious and motivational! Interesting fact: I once lost my lucky hat of 10 years on an island. Two days later, while looking out at sea, somebody dug it up right in front of me!

Alex Opacic Class Teacher I was born in Derby. I then completed my Psychology degree at the University of Leeds before pursuing my teaching career and moving to Manchester.  I love our school because it offers an incredibly supportive environment to learn and grow. Our pupils inspire and motivate me each day.  An interesting fact: I spent a year travelling South East Asia and Australia. I lived in Melbourne for 4 months and I loved it. I fed kangaroos (very slimy) and stroked a koala!

Pamela Brownsell Class Teacher I was born and raised in Manchester. I completed my final teaching placement here at Manley Park in 2012 and have been here ever since. Over the years, I have had the priviledge of welcoming our youngest learners into our Manley Park family as I have worked in both our EYFS and KS1 settings.   I love our school because it feels like a second family. We have the most supportive and inspiring staff, loving families and incredible children. Our Manley Park community never fails to brighten my day.  Interesting fact: I have a passion for netball and have been playing since I was nine years old.

Teresa Contel-Gonzalez Class Teacher, RE Lead I was born and brought up in Barcelona. I came to Manchester for the very first time in 1996 as an Erasmus student. I completed a 3 months placement in different schools and attended courses at the MMU. During this time, I had the great pleasure to meet Miss Avari who was a student teacher at the time.  After completing my teaching degree in Barcelona, I returned  to Manchester in January 1998 and I have been living here since.   An interesting fact: I am passionate about football and I love dancing. In my spare time, I attend Cuban Salsa dance classes. I once performed with my team inside the Manchester Cathedral.

Amali Meepe Class Teacher, Art Lead I grew up in Sri Lanka and taught in many schools. I have taught both secondary and primary children. I love our school because it has a loving and supportive environment which helps children to grow and be confident. Interesting fact: I volunteered and worked with the UN Habitat livelihood development during the Tsunami in Sri Lanka.

Jenny Lye Reception Class Teacher | Outdoor Learning Leader | Forest School Leader | Computing Co-ordinator I grew up on the Wirral, moved to Manchester for university … and never left! After working as a solicitor, I realised my true vocation lay in teaching. I joined MPPS as a trainee teacher in Summer 2014 … and never left! It’s a privilege to work with the youngest members of our MPPS family, helping them take their very first steps on their education journey. As Outdoor Learning Lead and a qualified Forest School Practitioner, I’m passionate about taking learning outside the classroom walls — giving children (and adults) space to explore, imagine and connect with nature while nurturing the roots and wings they need to thrive at school and beyond.  Fun fact: I once beat Olympic champion heptathlete Jessica Ennis in a long jump competition (...no need to mention that she no-jumped 3 times!)

Gemma Frankland-Slater Class Teacher, EYFS Phase Leader, Early Reading Lead, Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead Born and raised in Manchester, I am incredibly proud of my local roots, having grown up in Whalley Range. I’ve been a part of the Manley Park community since 2007 and am passionate about my work in the Early Years. Our school is truly special because of its supportive community, where every member is respected and valued.  Before starting university, I volunteered at a school in Southern India, an experience that deepened my passion for education. An interesting fact: I volunteered at a school in Southern India as part of my gap year before going to University.

 

Lauren Farren 

Olamide Olanrewaju

Abida Qasim

Jenny Allen-Brooks 

 

Rekha Soni 

I was born India and moved to England in 2000. I began working at Manley Park Primary School in 2008, and I’ve loved it ever since. Manley Park truly feels like my second family.

At school, I cover PPA across Early Years and Key Stage 1, and I also lead intervention across the school. What I enjoy most about working here is being part of such a wonderfully diverse and inclusive community. I’ve learned so much at Manley Park and continue to grow every day, thanks to the incredible support and encouragement I receive.

Interesting fact: I’ve had a passion for dancing and singing since I was nine years old and as a child, I even performed on TV! In my spare time, I enjoy going for walks with friends. I also speak Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu.

Debi Skelton 

I joined Manley Park Primary School in 2012 and have not looked back. My passions our teaching phonics and Outdoor Learning!

I love our school because of its inclusivity and the support it provides to all - pupils and staff.

Interesting Fact- I am a dab hand at making play dough and am a keen birder.

Heather Rennie

I was brought up in Old Trafford (even though I support Manchester City) before moving to Whalley Range and now back in Trafford. I have 4 children (3 girls and 1 boy), 2 chickens, 1 dog, 1 cat, 1 hamster, 3 fish, giant African snails and a frog pond! Can you tell I love animals?! I would love a to have my own farm one day as I love anything and everything to do with the outdoors and nature. I’m a Pilates lover and in the process of getting a Pilates teaching qualification. My love for Manley Park is deep rooted from my childhood days. 

Interesting fact: I lived on the school grounds from 1995 to 2019.

Oana Dragan

Therapeutic Inclusion Lead, EAL Lead

I come from Eastern Europe and was born and educated in Romania. I joined the Manley Park family in 2020, and I continue to feel proud and privileged to be part of a community of educators for whom education is a true vocation. I am passionate about educating children and using multicultural approaches to support them on their learning journey.

I love our school because of the incredible talent displayed by both the teachers and the children as they strive to become the best they can be. Being part of a multicultural and multilingual community is another aspect that makes me feel I belong and can grow here.

Interesting fact: I am an identical twin, and we share a telepathic connection.

 

Rukhsana Akram 

I was born in Pakistan and when I was 2 years old my family decided to come to England, so I have been living in England all my life, Manchester is my home town. I have  been working in Manley Park for 23 years. My passion is supporting children with special needs……but most of all being around children and staff. I just enjoy working here in Manley Park. My passion is to support and care for children and see them grow with great achievements.

Interesting facts: I can speak 3 languages.

 

Santock Sherry 

I was born in Glasgow, and grew up in  Whalley Range. I have been passionately dedicated to working with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) students for over 17 years. 

My journey in this field began with a deep commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive in an inclusive learning environment.

Interesting fact: Miss Henderson was my year 6 teacher and now I work a long side her, still learning new things everyday. 

Joan Hammond

I was born and brought up in Manchester. I started working at Manley Park in 2013 as a SEND TA and now work as a SENDco Assistant. I am passionate about supporting children to be the best that they can be.

I love our school because we value and support everyone. We are a community that works together with
children and families to provide a supportive learning environment.

Interesting Fact: I used to play roller derby. I took part in the tier 2 British championships and my team won a Gold medal in 2018.

 

Marcia Murphy 

I was born in Liverpool and moved to Manchester at the age of 3. I joined Manley Park as a Teaching Assistant in 2017 after qualifying as a Speech and Language Therapist and now work as a SENDCo Assistant.  I love working at Manley Park because it is a diverse and welcoming community.

Interesting Fact: Growing up, I was  a member of Trafford Athletics Club and wanted to be an Olympic 100m sprinter. I also love Ladybirds!

 

                                   

  Ewa Maciasz 

I was born and raised in Poland but have been living in the UK for the past 19 years. I've been a proud member of the Manley Park family since 2019, and I feel privileged to be part of this wonderful community.  I love my job because working with children is incredibly rewarding, and it's a great joy to see them achieve their goals.

Interesting fact: Outside of work, I also enjoy baking. In 2017, I participated in a North West - wide Premier Inn Bake Off competition and proudly won second place.

 

Melissa Cravagan

I was brought up in Didsbury. When starting Manley Park I instantly felt a part of the Manley Park family and community. I will forever be grateful for the children, families and the great team I’m surrounded by.

Interesting fact: When i was younger my passion was dancing.

 

Fouzia Ali

I was born in Manchester, started working at Manley Park in June 2008 as a Senior Lunchtime Organiser. I have done various roles during this time. I then applied for a Teaching Assistant role in 2022, Which I love!! 

I love our school because firstly I attended this school from Reception to Year 6! My two children also attended this school. I then chose to pursue my career with MPPS. This should show my dedication for the school, this is my second family.

Interesting fact: I can speak 3 different languages fluently and I love all things glitter and sparkles! 

 

Rumaanah Patel

I was born and raised in Manchester and have lived here my whole life. My background is in Psychology, and I have keen interest in mental health and child development. I enjoy working with children and young people, and understanding how they achieve different developmental milestones. I have been working in Manley Park since 2022, and I absolutely love working here!

I love our school because we are extremely child centred and put the pupils at the forefront of all our work. We are passionate about developing as individuals and as a collective team. 

Interesting fact: I can speak 5 languages and I absolutely love travelling.

 

Amrit Kaur

I have a passion for supporting children in education and development. My role is supporting children with special educational needs and adapting their learning to meet their needs. I enjoy helping the children to learn in different ways using visual adaptations, sign language and an adaptive curriculum. I love our school because they always provide personal development opportunities to support our practice. Children and families are supported and integrated really well within the school.

Interesting fact: I enjoy baking, trying new recipes, shopping and binge watching a series or documentary. 

Rima Alnajm

 I am delighted to introduce myself as a SEND TA at MPPS. I first joined the school as a volunteer and soon after was given the wonderful opportunity to become a member of the team.

Interesting facts: I speak three languages Arabic, English, and Swedish which allows me to provide valuable support for families and interpretation when needed. I also have a passion for travelling and exploring historical places. To date, I have visited more than fifteen countries across the Middle East and Europe, experiences that have broadened my knowledge and perspective.

 

Carl Ashcroft

I moved to Manchester, drawn by the bright lights. The place and the people are great. After a varied career, I came to Manley Park in January 2025. I love working at Manley Park, as part of a staff team committed to facilitating children to be the best that they can be.

Interesting fact: I used to be a beekeeper.

Darren Anderson

Victoria Ashton

Michelle Ying Lam 

Meletetsiga Beraki

Carole Lazarou

Jennifer Johnson

Gurbhar Kaur Landa

Sathvier Kour

Khalida Mahmood 

Spuran Kaur 

Sue Ellen John 

Rashda Mughal 

Nadira Arfeen 

Shahida Bhatti 

Evelyn Hart