A SCHOOL will mark the start of a new era – under new leadership – with a cross-Northwich teacher training day this half-term.

Rudheath Senior Academy – the new name of the University of Chester Academy Northwich (UCAN) from November 1 – will invite primary school staff to share ideas about mental health and wellbeing.

The joint inset day involving Rudheath Primary Academy, Witton Church Walk, Lostock Gralam, Victoria Road Primary School, Weaverham Primary Academy and Wincham Primary School will take place on Monday November 5.

Author and headteacher Andrew Moffat, who was awarded an MBE for services to equality and diversity in education, will be guest speaker.

Cath Green, principal at the Shipbrook Road school, said the day will be an ideal way to open a new chapter.

“We recognise the need to skill all staff in how to deal with ever-growing concerns regarding mental health and wellbeing in society,” she said.

“We believe by working together we can intervene earlier where there are problems and develop and continue support for pupils and their family members as they move through the education journey.

“We’re delighted to host this Inset Day because we recognise the importance of working with our family of primary schools to create the best learning and nurturing environments possible.”

The school has been run by the University of Chester Academies Trust (UCAT), but the trust ran into financial difficulties.

The North West Academies Trust (NWAT) is poised to take over next month. One of the country’s highest-performing trusts, NWAT already operates Delamere Academy near Northwich, Oak View Academy in Winsford, and schools in Chester and Shropshire.

NWAT will take two further UCAT schools under its wing before the end of the year – University Primary Academy Weaverham and University Church Free School, in Chester.

NWAT CEO Steve Docking said: “This is a great opportunity for schools to come together to share experience and ideas.

“We firmly believe that strength and improvement comes from working together and this is great example of sharing ideas and best practice.

“All children have the right to the best possible education and it is really important to us that the schools are the best they can be, are forward thinking, with the highest possible standards.”