School successes light a path ahead

THE FRIDAY THING: THIS column would be the first to admit that it has, in recent times, given the education establishment in Oldham a tough time.

Reports suggested that education in Oldham was in a pretty dire state and was coming a long way behind the educational achievements of schools in more prosperous parts of the region.

Glowing Ofsted reports have turned many of the comments — that suggested that Oldham youngsters were being short-changed — on their head. The truth is that education in Oldham has its shining lights. These point to a better quality of education, one in the front line of the battle to give Oldham schools the awards they deserve, opening avenues to success for hard-working pupils.

Radclyffe School shines following its Ofsted report, and now sits alongside Blue Coat school as Oldham’s only outstanding secondaries. Teachers, pupils and parents deserve a pat on the back.

The way now is surely forward: we look to the day when Oldham pupils and staff in all schools are basking in the light of success. Oldham will be a winner.



FINAL WORD: The remaining big change is sadly of a sporting nature. Oldham Rugby League club is leaving the area and will in future play “home” games at Stalybridge Celtic’s ground.

Despite the best efforts of Chris Hamilton - Oldham’s Mr Rugby League - the club has had to move out of Oldham following the refusal of Oldham Athletic to share its facilities.

Hopefully diehard local rugby league fans will finally have found a home that offers them an opportunity to effectively start again. Let’s hope fans rally round and help to make sure Stalybridge will welcome the club with open arms - and a big increase in supporters.