Epworth Education Trust

Special tour for Angela Rayner MP at Rosehill Methodist Primary Academy

Rosehill Methodist Primary Academy, part of the Epworth Education Trust, welcomed a very special visitor last week when Angela Rayner, MP for Ashton-under-Lyne, popped in to meet pupils and staff and take a tour of the school.

Angela received a guided tour from four Year 6 prefects, including the school’s mayor. They proudly showed her around the school, showcasing key areas such as the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision, outdoor spaces, sensory room, sports hall, and classrooms from nursery to Year 6.

The pupils took the opportunity to ask her questions about her role as an MP, what that involved and why she enjoyed the job, and learned more about the workings of government including what time the Prime Minister gets up in the morning!

The MP also visited the school’s training centre, where she met staff from across the Trust involved with Behaviour Hubs during a professional development session.

Rosehill have worked with the Behaviour Hub, a government-funded programme helping schools create calm, positive and supportive environments.  Active participation in the programme has resulted in notable improvements to behaviour and attendance across the school, particularly through the introduction of Habits for Learning – a consistent approach to behaviour routines and expectations.  The school has recently graduated from the Behaviour Hub, due to the excellent progress that has been made. 

Gemma Yapp, Headteacher at Rosehill Methodist Primary Academy, was delighted to welcome the special visitor. She said: "It was a privilege to welcome Angela to our school and show her all the wonderful things that happen at Rosehill, including how we create a safe, happy, and supportive learning environment for every child.

“Pupils in every classroom and hallway made us proud with their behaviour, showcasing our school at its best. Our incredible tour guides did a fantastic job, providing a superb tour of our school while demonstrating an admirable curiosity about the life of an MP. We’ve invited Angela back for a Forest School session, and to have a go of our mud slide!”

Julie-Ann Hewitt, CEO at Epworth Education Trust, praised the school, saying: "It’s wonderful to show distinguished visitors such as MPS how Rosehill is creating a warm and inclusive environment for its pupils. The dedication of the staff and the enthusiasm of the pupils are truly inspiring!

“Rosehill shows just what can be achieved when every single child is supported to flourish and thrive.”

Angela Rayner, MP for Ashton-under-Lyne, said: “School visits are always my favourite bit of the job, and I would like to thank everyone at Rosehill for giving me such a warm welcome and showing me around their wonderful school. The Mayor and Prefects gave me an intense grilling and I look forward to testing the mud slide!”