Testimonials

• Iain
  Head of English
  Iain

  I was determined not to be a teacher because both my parents were, but I loved studying English at university and I decided I wanted to pass on this enthusiasm. I’ve been at Parrs Wood since I was an NQT – the English department is an incredible place to work because we have such a strong bond so I’ve never really thought about leaving!  

  The school’s diversity means that there is never a dull day because there’s so much to learn from everyone around you. Our students are interesting and funny, and the strong relationships we share with them are remarkable. I think 9/10 days I really enjoy work and ask myself where would I go that’s going to be better than that?

  I have aspirations of becoming part of the Senior Leadership Team, and the school are very supportive of staff who are looking to progress. I can access specific CPD sessions and have been involved in a coaching programme. The school even funded my Masters which has undoubtedly helped me to become a better teacher.

• Andrew
  Assistant Headteacher
  Andrew

  I have a family connection with the school because my father taught at Parrs Wood, retiring in 1998 as Head of Sixth Form – a role my wife now occupies!

  I’d worked in a number of different schools when the chance to teach science here came up. I felt the school had everything – a strong ethos, challenging educational targets and a sixth form. I’ve been here for almost 20 years now and I can honestly say there’s just a positivity you get walking about the school that’s difficult to create.  

  What I love about working at Parrs Wood is the challenge of teaching such a diverse cohort. I have students that really struggle with science, all the way through to those who go to Oxbridge. Regardless of ability, our students recognise that education is the best way for them to make a life for themselves.

• Sharon
  Director of Languages
  Sharon

  I’ve taught in different schools but have now been at Parrs Wood for over five years. As well as overseeing the languages department, I am involved in outreach work that helps us support other schools in the area by embedding strong learning techniques. 

  A love of learning languages led me to choose a career in teaching in order to enthuse others similarly. I have embedded our ‘Pass it on’ model, part of which focuses on giving students engaging subject matter, so that they are passionate about their learning.  

  Being able to pass on the best practice that has delivered results in our school just highlights what an innovative place this is to work in. Senior leaders understand the benefit of helping others, but also how this can better what we do ourselves. 

  Supporting others is typical of this school’s sense of community, one of our core values. Students here get to experience the full diversity of Manchester’s community and this stand them in good stead for later life because they can communicate with anyone and everyone.

• Sarah
  Science Teacher
  Sarah

  I’ve been teaching for 25 years and have spent the last 18 of them at Parrs Wood. I’ve even got two children who attend the school now. 

  I wanted to teach at this school for two main reasons; I’m a passionate believer that a comprehensive education system is the best for everyone, and the sixth form meant I could teach more advanced subject matter. 

  We’re fortunate because the school attracts diverse staff who are enthusiastic about bringing their own ideas. Not only this, but the school is keen for staff to try new things and give you the space to see if they’ll work. 

  I think students enjoy coming to Parrs Wood because its size means they get opportunities, both in enrichment and a broad curriculum, that they know they wouldn’t get anywhere else. Beyond this, they know that the school won’t take the easy option but the one that’s best for them.