A primary school in Widnes was crowned the winner of two categories at the Educate Awards.
St Michael’s Catholic Primary School won the Mental Health & Wellbeing Award and staff member, Sue McMullen, won Business Manager of the Year.
For the Mental Health & Wellbeing Award, sponsored by Hidden Strength, schools are judged on how they effectively tackle mental health issues among pupils and staff and promote positive social and emotional wellbeing.
Judges were impressed by St Michael’s Catholic Primary School’s commitment to ensuring that the mental health of students, staff and the wider community is looked after.
In the award entry, the school showcased its hardworking mental health and wellbeing team who are responsible for delivering an engaging range of events each year, including activities like music, art, yoga, and sports to help students be happier and healthier.
Its pupils are also taught the importance of connecting and building positive relationships through regular visits to local nursing homes and collections for local food banks are also regularly held, demonstrating the significance of giving.
Sue McMullen, who fulfils the role of business manager at the school, was awarded the Business Manager of the Year Award, for her positive contributions to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the school systems and work with other departments.
In addition to managing the school’s finance, HR and administration, Sue is also the school photographer, writes press releases and has qualified as a mental health first aider for the school. She is recognised as an excellent role model for all staff at the school.
Now in its eleventh year, the Educate Awards showcases the hard work and creativity that takes place in the education sector, from STEM and performing arts to sport and literacy.
The awards also recognise the individuals who bring schools and colleges to life, from inspiring teachers and dedicated support staff to efficient business managers and strategic leadership teams.
In partnership with Copyrite Systems and Ricoh, the Educate Awards took place at the Liverpool Cathedral and welcomed over 600 guests. The evening was hosted by broadcaster, Simon ‘Rossie’ Ross.
Alongside the awards ceremony was a delicious three course gala dinner and glittering entertainment from schools around the region.
Kim O’Brien, founder of the Educate Awards, said: “Congratulations to St Michael’s Catholic Primary School and to Sue McMullen for winning at this year’s Educate Awards!
“A big well done to the runners up and finalists too. Results this year were incredibly close, and judges had a difficult time deciding not only the shortlist but also overall the winners. The Educate Awards team is proud to champion the innovation, diversity and dedication that is taking place in educational establishments around the region. Entries will open again in February 2023 and we encourage all types of schools and colleges to submit as many entries as they like, for free.”
