An outstanding Bolton school has been named the most inspirational primary school in the North West.

Green Fold School in Farnworth was honoured for providing a first class education at the Educate Awards which took place in Liverpool Cathedral.

The school was recognised for its 'exceptional contributions to education' with the prestigious award which recognises outstanding education in Merseyside, Cheshire, Lancashire, and Greater Manchester.

The specialist school won the Most Inspirational Primary School category.

The school teaches children with complex needs and has has expanded to four sites, providing education and holistic care for 181 students, including those with autism, profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), severe learning difficulties (SLD), and complex communication needs.

Awarded an ‘outstanding’ grade by Ofsted in November 2023, Green Fold was celebrated for creating a nurturing environment where ‘pupils flourish’.

The dedicated staff were said to foster exceptional relationships with students, ensuring they feel happy and safe.

Executive headteacher Katie Hague said: "To win the award in this category is so very special; it compares us to everyone else working with primary aged children, regardless of need or background, it is an incredible accolade.

"The challenges of working in a special school across four sites, with children who arrive on buses and so we don't see their parents, are huge. Despite this, the team at Green Fold deliver the best education and care, for children and their families.

"The work that our staff all do, day in and day out is breathtaking. They support children with the most complex needs and ensure that they thrive. The Governors and I are immensely proud of everyone."

This year, the school has enhanced its capacity through an £8 million investment and opened a new specialist Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) facility in Daubhill.

As the Autism Education Trust lead trainers for Bolton, Green Fold School has trained over 900 professionals and provided outreach support to mainstream schools, helping integrate autistic children and those with behavioural difficulties.

READ MORE: Green Fold School in The Orchards Federation undergoes expansion

Green Fold School in Farnworth rated 'outstanding'

Bolton specialist school honoured with a prestigious award

The judging panel commented: “Green Fold clearly invests significant effort in building positive relationships with parents. Its commitment to equipping parents with knowledge and skills to support their children's development is inspiring. Additionally, the essential support provided during crises, along with positive feedback about ‘the sanctuary’, highlights the school’s vital role in the community.”

Kim O’Brien, founder of the Educate Awards, said: “Congratulations to Green Fold School on its win at this year’s Educate Awards!

A huge well done to the runners-up and finalists and thank you to everyone who took the time to enter. The results were incredibly close, and judges had their work cut out deciding not only the shortlist but also overall the winners.”

Kim added: “The Educate Awards is proud to be shining a spotlight on the region’s schools and colleges, and celebrating the amazing work taking place inside and outside of the classroom. Entries will for 2025 will open in February and we encourage all types of schools, colleges and multi academy trusts to submit entries.”

The school also came runner-up in the Leadership Team of the Year category