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

Ben Tudor Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead

Robert Jones SENDCO, Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead

Jonathan Evans Class Teacher, Upper Key Stage 2 Phase Leader, Maths Lead I grew up mostly in the beautiful surroundings of North Wales and in the bustling city of London before moving to Manchester to study music. I came to Manley Park as a student teacher in July 2014 and have been working here in year six since June 2015. I love our school because children's outcomes lie at the very centre of all the many innovative and creative things we do, day in day out. Our adults are passionate about our children and their families, and want them to be the very best they can be. Interesting fact: when I was a year six child at Rhosddu School in Wrexham, I sang a solo for Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip.

Antonia Armstrong Class Teacher I was born and raised in Mighty Matlock, Derbyshire and moved to Manchester 20 years ago. I also spent 2 years living and working in Beijing! I love our school because the children are free to be individual and unique. Differences are celebrated in an inclusive environment. Interesting fact: I love to run. If I could, I'd run everywhere! I once ran a half marathon around our school playground!

Kate Brown Class Teacher, Geography Lead, LKS2 Phase Lead  I was born in Chester and spent my early years in Merseyside before moving to Manchester. I joined Manley Park in 2020 and have lived locally since. I love our school because of the overwhelming positivity and investment into the learning and development of everyone. The fact that children are both respectful and respected is expressed in their confidence and willingness to share their own values and attitudes with the community. I firmly believe there is no other school like Manley Park and I know many people share this feeling. Interesting fact:  I have recently caught the bug for alpine hiking and have been lucky enough to camp at 3000m in the Dolomites!

Georgia Barrett Class Teacher I was born in the capital city of London, but I've lived in Whalley Range for most of my life! I love working and helping families and children in different contexts and countries. I love our school because of the wonderful, positive relationships fostered in its community. I look forward to developing a great relationship with you and our class! I love to paint and sketch in my spare time. I also love badminton, even though I'm not very good at it! My favourite food is either from a Jamaican or Indian cuisine, they both do amazing curry dishes! Interesting fact: I've come from a family that is passionate about teaching children, I have a twin sister who is also a teacher!

Immy Wilson Year 4 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!

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, South America and Africa!

Marianna Blackburn Class Teacher I was born and raised in London, but moved to the North when I was eleven. During my Neuroscience degree course at university, I had to remember a lot of information about scientific research on how the brain learns, so I kept several fancy rats as pets to help me remember all the different studies (I managed to train a few of them to do tricks for rewards!). I love our school because of the incredible sense of community amongst staff, pupils and families. It is truly inspiring to see and be part of such a supportive school family that is committed towards encouraging respect, responsibility and compassion for one another. Interesting fact: I used to be an air cadet and had the opportunity to learn how to fly a two-seater bulldog plane.

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.

Lauren Cotterell Class Teacher I grew up in Derbyshire with my mum and brother. I then studied at the University of Lincoln and spent a year travelling South East Asia. When I returned, I completed my teacher training and in 2018 I joined the Manley Park team.  I love our school because of the positivity that shines through the children and adults. It is a pleasure to teach our wonderful children!  Interesting fact: I taught English in Thailand - that is when I knew I wanted to become a teacher.

Jessica Cheetham Class Teacher I was born and raised in Manchester. I was a student teacher at Manley Park and was then lucky enough to start my teaching career here in 2013. Throughout my time here, I have enjoyed teaching in both KS1 and KS2.  I love our school because of our amazing children, families and staff. It is a very special place to be. Interesting fact: I am from a large Irish family and I am the eldest of 7 siblings. When I was younger I enjoyed Irish dancing.

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.

Caroline Mellor Class Teacher, Design and Technology Lead I was born in Bolton and raised in Manchester. I studied Fashion and Textiles at Manchester Metropolitan University before deciding to share my passion with others as a teacher.  I love our school because our pupils are truly inspiring individuals who strive to achieve their full potential every day. It is an absolute honour to be part of such a wonderful learning community.  Interesting Fact: I taught secondary Design and Technology: Food and Textiles for 11 years before my primary school dreams came true at Manley Park. I bake celebration cakes and sew in my spare time and I love the colour pink.

Teresa Contel-Gonzalez Class Teacher, RE Lead  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.   I started working at Manley Park in September 2019.  I love our school because of the community spirit amongst staff, pupils and families. It is a great place to be where children are enthusiastic, eager to learn and support others in their journey.  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.

Jenny Lye Class Teacher, Forest School Lead, Computing Lead I grew up on the Wirral, moved to Manchester for university ... and never left! I love our school because I am inspired by our fabulous MPPS children every day. Interesting fact: I once beat Jessica Ennis in a long jump competition!

Gemma Frankland-Slater Class Teacher, EYFS Phase Leader Where I was born, grew up... I was born in Manchester and grew up mostly in Whalley Range. I love our school because of its community and how supportive it is and that all members are respected. An interesting fact: I volunteered at a school in Southern India as part of my gap year before going to University.

Mr Warburton

Lauren Farren 

Rubina Baig

Jane Culverhouse

Abida Qasim

Jenny Allen-Brooks 

 

 

Rekha Soni 

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

I love working at school- What I love most about our school is its wonderfully diverse community. I’ve learned so much here and continue to grow every day, thanks to the support Manley Park provides. 

Interesting fact: I’ve been passionate about dancing and singing since I was 9 years old, and as a child, I even performed on TV. In my spare time, I enjoy walking with friends. I also speak Hindi, Punjabi, 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 in 2017 after qualifying as a Speech and Language Therapist. I love our school because it is a very diverse and welcoming community.

Interesting fact:  Growing up I was a member of Trafford Athletics Club and wanted to be an Olympic 100m sprinter.

 

                                   

  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. 

 

Helen Hall 

I grew up in South Wales and after studying Graphic Design in Cardiff I moved to London and worked in TV and film. Later I moved to Manchester and trained and worked as a Primary School Teacher. 

I love working at Manley Park because of it’s hugely positive, supportive and inclusive environment.

Interesting fact: I once slept in a hammock for 2 months in the Bornean jungle, amongst wild bears, snakes and orangutans!

Rima Alnajm

I am excited to introduce myself as a SEND Teaching Assistant here at Manley Park Primary School. I began my journey with the school in September 2023 as a volunteer in the Reception department, and I was fortunate enough to have been given the opportunity to join the wonderful team full-time.

I love our school because the dedication of the staff, the enthusiasm of the children, and the strong partnerships with parents all contribute to an environment where everyone feels valued. 

Interesting fact: I love supporting with interpretation, as I speak Arabic, English, and Swedish. Language has always been a passion of mine, and I find it incredibly rewarding to help bridge communication gaps.

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